A Soldier's Goodbye | Teen Ink

A Soldier's Goodbye

June 4, 2010
By JakeShaw PLATINUM, Atlanta, Georgia
JakeShaw PLATINUM, Atlanta, Georgia
23 articles 0 photos 13 comments

Favorite Quote:
When you're in a night that seems almost devoid of stars and you look but can't find someone to help you see. Look for that lonely star and let it guide you until you find the light. (anonymous)


Gathered around the empty hole,
Ready to let her go.
Looking into the deep void,
So dark and black as coal.

The bright red in the eyes
Of those gathered around,
Showing all of the pain
Without making a single sound.

With the fire blasting
From those twenty-one guns.
The pain bundled in me
Finally comes undone.

Clinging tight to the flag
Not letting it go.
The last shred that's left
To bring back home.

Watching her go down
Into that dark abyss.
And now I can only hope
She'll find her ultimate bliss.


The author's comments:
The meter is *8686 6868 8686*. This piece was written for my english class. The inspiration was a scene on the news of a young soldier being lowered into a grave with all their family and friends gathered around.

Similar Articles

JOIN THE DISCUSSION

This article has 5 comments.


on Aug. 10 2010 at 6:38 pm
Marlyre PLATINUM, Kalamazoo, Michigan
21 articles 0 photos 208 comments

Favorite Quote:
"when you cry, do you waste your tears?" Madonna

i've been to a vet burial, it amazes me when they give the flag to the family... it is supposed to be a generous offer of the government, but it just seems so cold... great snapshot of that moment

James said...
on Jul. 14 2010 at 4:22 pm
Wow this is amazing Jake.

R. Globus said...
on Jul. 12 2010 at 6:02 am
I really like how the author uses a sensory experience to explore such a poignant  and painful moment. Well Done!

E. Paul said...
on Jul. 7 2010 at 2:51 pm

A powerful expression of grief and mourning that is very meaningful.

RP


a.cinn said...
on Jul. 3 2010 at 11:34 pm
Whoa!! this is so meaningful and written so well! it really captures the moment. i felt what was going on. it's really good!