Civilian Story
by Mikela Bjork

War is not a cry from an oppressed people.
it is not a great equalizer.

A declaration of war comes from the mountaintops
a labyrinth of Power
Power and fear.

A revolt is when an oppressed people say
Enough.
See Us. Believe Us. Know Us.

To think that we are free
when mediation is a success
a ceasefire is honored

to think that we are free
when civilians turned captives
are released, like a flock of wounded birds, rehabilitated

to think that we are free
when we are gifted a second, a third
chance at life

to return home, free
to see the blood-soiled earth
bodies, remnants of life.

To tell us we are free
from captivity
is the delusion they must uphold

As they sit on their stolen thrones
and press play.



 

Return to: