Aftermath

After the war lands list lifeless and grey
The men return like melodic zombies.
Battle weary and beaten like dulled clay
All victims of conflicts between the Tshombes.

The women have no hope in their soulless eyes
Devoid of emotion, no will to care.
The cruel loyalty of endless sighs
As loved ones fail to appear, none will share.

A child in confusion is war's toll.
Father slain by a bullet, left to die.
Mother raped by grief, it's taken her soul.
Such anger breeds inside, the next war cry.

When will the lessons of peace be given
As anger for vengeance remains in mind.
The rage for war is endlessly driven.
Are we destined to remain always blind.

Tshombe: Tribal chief

© Jem Farmer 2008, all rights reserved.