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Sunbird

by Vince Mills

Who would take this precious thing,
A bird so delicate, so ancient in its origin,
And break its wings,

Then swing it on string around their head
And tell the world that it can fly,
That it can sing.

And does the world believe them?
Does it pretend to listen
For a plaintive cry?

Does it deny its witness
To this mutilation, once again say nothing,
Share the lie?

 

Note: The Sunbird is the national bird of Palestine

Vince Mills is a political activist who writes political commentary and poetry mainly for the Red Paper, Morning Star, Scottish Left Review and Labour Hub.

Poetry submissions to thursdaypoems@gmail.com.

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