Not all Wounds Bleed
In Victorian times we locked them in, today we lock them out
Sitting in the street a plastic coffee cup at his feet
He looks OK to the passer-by, to the untrained eye
An idle bugger, junkie and terminally workshy
But this picture is very far from complete
He has behavioural issues this problem man
Loses his temper, raves incoherently at folk
He abuses alcohol, his mind wears a cloak
Of darkness, a member of a despised clan
Of nightmares he’s never free, his best mate stood on an IED
And now he suffers from the awful dreams
Of torn off limbs, and hideous screams
He’s a wounded soldier but it’s hard to see
Lest We Forget
© pronto 2020
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Good poem on a worthy and timely subject, pronto. Not easy to achieve gravitas on a serious subject using the confines of rhyme, so well done that man! The government are putting money in to help these invalided active now I see, admitting to their mental needs as well. If the security of its people is the number one priority of the State, then maintaining the welfare and care of the brave military who sacrifice life, mental health, and limb in protecting us, should be priority number two on their list, and for as long as it takes, or is… Read more »
Yes, at last, they are beginning to see that not all wounds bleed.
Rather few words but a great deal said. Very good!!
Thank you for your kind comment.
Hello Peter
, On such a day as this when we have witnessed the nation giving thanks to our hero’s from the past it is fitting to be reminded that there are still wounded men out there today. ‘Lest we forget’ should also apply to those who have served, and suffered in recent times.
I think you poem says it very well.
Regards, Michael
Thank you.