Poetry
(Swans - June 18, 2012)
The streets are broad in Tehran,
thirsty for sustenance;
soldiers of the supremacy
will provide it
full measure,
not with water
but with blood,
running like a river
into the gutters of Kargar Avenue.
The colors of oppression
are shades of red,
sprinkled with droplets
of fear and grief,
piercing like a lance
the heart of hope,
strangling like a rope
the throat of faith.
As innocence dies
on the ruby road,
the masters of murder
sit in their tents,
feasting on tea,
pistachios, and dates,
secure in their falsehood,
oblivious to their crimes.
These are the times
of suffering and sorrow,
as desolation reigns
in the soul of Iran.
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About the Author
John M. Marshall is the founder and editor of Epiphany Arts, Cape Fear Poetry Society, and various poetry sites. He has received several writing awards. His poetry has been published in the U.S. (including Swans) and seven other countries. He recently had song lyrics performed at the Irish Embassy in Bulgaria. Marshall lives in Wilmington, North Carolina. (back)