Savannah stillness
mimicked torpor in my soul,
caught in nightmares
of frustration and disbelief
I slept...
cradles of creation usurped;
its beauty raped by greedy carpetbaggers
I slept...
families destroyed,
sold for cotton pickin’ gains
I slept...
generals pinned bubblegum medals
on chests grown fat
plucking misery’s bones
rubbing sleep swollen eyes
I awake ...
hearing footsteps grow louder
as I watch children marching,
hand in hand,
to reclaim lost patrimony
Africa, the alarm clock sounds
Author notes
prompt: Antonio Rui de Noronha.
"Surge et Ambula"[ get up and walk]
English translation of the Latin title: I keep awake and hope.
A contest entry
- Surge et Ambula [ get up and walk] by Peteskid.
1800 points, ended May 28, 8 entries
Honorable winner
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest
How do you think I could improve this poem?
Comments
1 - 5 of 5
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This is like stepping through Africa
and experiencing it as the same time. There is an awakening in this poem. Written with a sensitivity that I enjoyed.
Frans
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And onward they do march, but sadly to not enough drums, the need in each and every square mile of this vast land cries for the milk and honey it once had before white men claimed its sustenance. The cruellest thing of all is those who think they are superior to these amazing people. If they looked closer then they would see a people who should hate the earth that whites walk on, but instead they will be met with only smiles, open arms and love....Beautiful write. Love, Chez
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Ouch!
I can go along with much what you said here, but I reserve to disagree with some. I love Africa, I was born in Africa and I'll give my life to and for Africa [and its people]! A you my friend for your heart-felt words - I love you for this. Frans
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I think for some strange reason I fell in love with Africa and it with me, it has that strange magic that sneaks up and captures your heart. The people in this world who only see black as a color and are ignorant to what lays beneath really make me angry. All of God's people have a heart and red blood and it beats just like mine, I just want everyone to know these people appreciate what we do for them, with open hearts and hands and I had no trouble hugging any one of them. It is power and greed that corrupts many but as a whole they are delightful. I thank you Frans, I loves ya back
Love, Chez
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A simple structure and repetition in the foundation, a well taken stance in observation of a status. An unmistakeable call for change; in a vibrant voice, certain and forceful...this message is strong and very well done. Thank you for this fine entry into the contest and best of luck in the judging...PK
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