They came in boats to Australia's shores
with dread and hope and trauma
an embarrassment to that settled land
then stripped of human dignity
the refugees were escorted away
to where the all embracing ocean
surrounded them with callous emotion
on hold but not have under canvas
the threads of a future to weave a home
and herded like Australian cattle
without the justification of meat
to curl and die in searing heat.
<Deleted User> (13762)
Fri 4th Nov 2016 09:08
I struggled a bit with the structure of this Ray and wondered if it would read better jiggled around some but maybe my head is struggling with its own structure this morning!
Are we seeing a modern day rabbit proof fence syndrome? We are so focused on migrants heading in our direction that we forget about those in other parts of the world. I haven't been very aware of this unfolding story - are they coming from Burma?
All the best,
Colin
If you wish to post a comment you must login.
This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse, you are agreeing to our use of cookies.
raypool
Fri 4th Nov 2016 16:58
Hi Colin. Thanks for reading - as always an honest appraisal . I did think it was a hard subject for a poem but felt strongly and tried to fit it into a box of thinking the way one does . David watched this TV special and will know the details probably re the origin of the refugees. Some of them were interviewed and I think some parts of Africa and Iran as I recall. Incredibly sad were the attempts of the helpers who could do nothing to mitigate the conditions and the harassment of guards with obvious racism and casual sexual favours expected. Worth checking out as much of it was secretly filmed.
David, another layer of personal experience which echoes the feelings of many in the know. Thanks for adding that. Yes, this got under my skin somewhat. As poems go probably not too memorable but the subject matter sticks. I don't think would have had the viewing figures of Bake Off or Masterchef but we all need cheering up I suppose.
Ray