I was born in this land in the heat of the year
I was large and my mother was small
The midwife took her down by the water
Though she tried, she couldn't save her at all
And the river ran red, ran red
My father hunted for meat for the tribe
Never too much for the good of the land
Giving thanks to the Great Spirit for His gift
He released the deer's spirit down on the sand
And the river ran red, ran red
A young brave fishing had the first meeting
Whites on horseback coming onto God's land
Curious and unafraid, he raised a hand in greeting
As one, they raised their rifles in answer
And the river ran red, ran red
The People's way of life is living in the land
The white man lives on it and bends it to his will
They mine all the streams and fell all the trees
The plants they would burn, all the animals they would kill
And the river runs red, runs red
Now my tribe with weapons of bone, stick, and stone
Ride to meet the white men with guns forged in fire
I fear that the People will die before this day is done
The spirit of the Sioux will pass from this Earth
And the river will run red, run red
Author notes
In humble competition with Sue Cardwell
Words are: red river
A contest entry
- Dueling Poets (Invite Only) Round II by Dalaney.
1000 points, ended March 18, 2008, 15 entries
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest - Tell me a Story by TabbyCat.
750 points, ended April 2, 2008, 44 entries
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest
Comments
1 - 11 of 11
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Beautiful...haunting lamentation for a honorable people. I wish you all the best, thanks for entering!
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A very well written entry. Poetry about Indians always makes me cry. I thank you so very much. Love, Lane
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This is really great
This is a great story, well written. It's a really shame what we did.
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The saddest thing in America
Happened many generations ago. The european settlers abolished a beautiful and strong culture. Instead they should have learned from the many Native American cultures.
The poem itself is a good strong write, but I cannot call it beautiful. I hope you understand why, I feel that you do, or you couldnot have penned this.
Good luck
Buddy
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I've read this again and again, and I love it. Contest winner? It would have my vote
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A beautiful story...good luck...
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This is both hard-hitting and very moving. A great interpretation of the prompt and a compelling read--very well done.
Bill
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A very strong poem giving me an insight into your native American culture...thank you.
A good take on the prompt...
All the best....Sue
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WOW, amazing write. Well worth the wait. Great take on the prompt. You showed their lives, over many years and gave sight to how it must of been for them when the white man, [who takes without asking], came onto their land and into their world
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What a beautiful write!! Touched me and gave me a glimpse into what life was like for the Sioux. Stunning!
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this is an exceptional write, and on a topic dear to my heart. I enjoyed this immensely, very well done.
Rory
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