GAZA
The map of peace,
made of blotting paper,
is soaked by the blood
of those following it,
and the way is lost
in a fury of echoes
of horror on both sides
in ongoing nightmares.
Religion looks contrary
to find itself in hell
when not following a vision
of diplomatic hope.
All are used to conflict,
concord abandoned
and nobody searches for it
except the tearful.
All wear the armour
of their own faith
and negotiation is a pose
on a high wire to nowhere.
They all want peace---
and will fight
to the last man
to prove it.
BLIND DATE
Judge carefully. Don’t offer
untenable statements born
of anxiety or your name
will forever be a slogan.
Trust your intentions
when doubts have reasons,
previous matters of love
are just empty shells.
Beware laden silence. It’s not
just space between words
but an inquisition checking
what your eyes are saying.
Finally if you cross
the barrier of compliments
to find relevant overtures,
you may share the day.
You’ve turned to a page
in some life story
with a bit part
you can handle.
Every beginning is a promise.
Bionote
Widely published over many years in various countries in numerous magazines, journals, anthologies, newspapers and competitions, most recently first prize in the Brian Nisbet poetry award. His latest book is ‘History Doesn’t Die’.
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