Memento Mori
I can’t recall – I’d had a snooze –
Who was it who said ‘Go’,
And was it Tomahawk or Cruise
Or Patriot? Don’t know.
I’d only managed fourteen winks.
Which country am I from then? (Thinks.)
Who was it who brought down the house
Or who brought down the plane?
Who lit the flames they cannot douse?
A portion of my brain
Can’t figure it. I’m digging deep,
But didn’t manage too much sleep.
Who made the gun? Who sanctioned death?
Who has to take the rap?
Who, me? But I was out of breath
(I’d missed my morning nap).
You wonder who’s the guilty state
If it forgets to hibernate.
I can’t remember Vietnam
Or Gaza, Baghdad, but I
Confess I don’t know who I am –
A little short of shuteye.
Launched from air or sub or ship?
Ask me when I’ve had more kip.
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