Revolution and Rebirth: A Remembrance
Happy 4th of July! Before you overindulge (and no, you should not consider entering the hot dog eating contest, not unless you're a trained professional), take a moment to consider the significance of the day. This poem was inspired by a visit to the Granary Burial Ground in Boston. The remains of about 5000 people, heroes and others, rest here, and the place is inhabited by their memory. If you ever get to Boston, don't miss this peaceful spot tucked in the pocket of the busy city. For more information, click here.
Enjoy the 4th, but do it reverently. Hot dogs in July are costlier than we realize; they were paid for in blood.
Revolution and Rebirth: A Remembrance
By Annmarie Lockhart
Slabs worn smooth where words were etched,
sanded thin by wind and rain
and unforgiving Boston winters.
The sun doesn't shine in this old yard;
Brownstones stand perimeter guard.
Walk along the shade-dark paths
and breathe the history living.
Stand where once bereaved long stood
and feel the sacred stirring
in this shady corner of Rebel City.
Life and death commingle here,
feed off one another.
The trees grow full, deep, green,
nourished at their reaching roots
by Patriot and Tory dust.
Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, John Hancock, Crispus Attucks:
famous names 5th-graders know.
They and others are buried here
at the crossroads of revolution and rebirth.
Spend time, keep company with the dead,
and remember they once were living.
Enjoy the 4th, but do it reverently. Hot dogs in July are costlier than we realize; they were paid for in blood.
Revolution and Rebirth: A Remembrance
By Annmarie Lockhart
Slabs worn smooth where words were etched,
sanded thin by wind and rain
and unforgiving Boston winters.
The sun doesn't shine in this old yard;
Brownstones stand perimeter guard.
Walk along the shade-dark paths
and breathe the history living.
Stand where once bereaved long stood
and feel the sacred stirring
in this shady corner of Rebel City.
Life and death commingle here,
feed off one another.
The trees grow full, deep, green,
nourished at their reaching roots
by Patriot and Tory dust.
Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, John Hancock, Crispus Attucks:
famous names 5th-graders know.
They and others are buried here
at the crossroads of revolution and rebirth.
Spend time, keep company with the dead,
and remember they once were living.
Posted by Annmarie at 7/5/2009 12:00 AM 
Categories: today's words, vox poetica originals, dedication
Tags: Annmarie Lockhart free verse patriots
Categories: today's words, vox poetica originals, dedication
Tags: Annmarie Lockhart free verse patriots
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