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Echoing the Silence

If
Government
or
Society

Can
Silence
One
Person...

How
Long
'til
Everyone

Is
Silenced?

Author notes

Idea, and word list, for this poem came from this saying:

"If mankind minus one were of one opinion, then mankind is no more justified in silencing the one than the one - if he had the power - would be justified in silencing mankind." John Stuart Mill, Born 1806 - died 1873

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Stuart_Mill


Another related saying is this one, by playwright Heinrich Heine, who wrote "Almansor: A Tragedy" (1823):

"Where they burn books, at the end they also burn people."

Heinrich Heine: http://www.geocities.com/~bblair/LazarusHeinePoemsAndBallads.html

For example, see articles on the Holocaust of World War II: (We must never forget!)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=Holocaust&fulltext=Search

See also: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_they_came...

See also: http://allpoetry.com/poem/4292261

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Comments

1 - 10 of 10

  • Pamela A Lamppa gold member
    July 5
    Edit | Reply

    Bravo

    3 1/2 seconds and it all starts with the Patriot Act.

    Well questioned.


  • oldschoolhero
    June 28

    Edit | Reply
    i think all of us are silenced in some ways. except for very few people. [not including me]

    im too confused to speak.

    • Trafalger679Curious silver member
      June 28
      Edit | Reply
      I always enjoy your sense of humor. Thank you for your comment and applause. I do appreciate them.

  • Woodchuck4400 silver member
    June 27

    Edit | Reply
    Excellent question. This is unfortunately why even the most abhorrant individuals have the right to present their rant, but it guarantees the right for the rest of us. Great job.

    • Trafalger679Curious silver member
      June 27
      Edit | Reply
      Thank you for your thoughtful comment and compliment with applause. I do appreciate them. Hope you have a good evening.

  • Ravensdark
    June 27

    Edit | Reply
    Sadly there is truth behind your words. The final asks a question that maybe cannot be answered but is hauntingly felt....the structure does well to convey your point....tis a meaningful and thoughtful piece....well written great job


  • SwtnSxy
    June 27

    Edit | Reply
    wow this is awesome its so true. I love the structure of this poem and i love how you used references. Great write i really enjoyed this piece its very strong! keep on penning!
1 - 10 of 10