Silent rows of people
stand, each within
their space.
As solemn music flows
across the empty streets
like rain.
How to capture life’s
sharp loss again
with dignity?
To weigh the impossible
burden of guilt
made stone.
And mourn the millions
dead from war’s
harsh hand.
Prince and soldier stand
heads bowed low
sharing grief.
When will it end
this annual lament
to folly?
When we have learnt
love for enemies
not hate.
And solve our problems
not with war
but peace.