A cigarette comrade -
before I die
my face is torn
and my eyes are gone
but if you hold it to my lips
I can still draw the flame.
It matters not comrade -
that we are foe
I'm comfortable here
in your hospital tent
quietly bleeding into the dirt below.
Forgive me comrade -
if I call my mothers name
but it's so lonely here
on your hospital floor
and it helps me with the pain.
You weep for me comrade -
please don't be sad
the cowbells sound
I hear the doves
it is a good day for my life to end.
The butt is sodden comrade -
and I leave you now
goodbye my friend
until we meet again
far, far away from this African hell.
Mike Subritzky
NZATMC AP Lima 1980
Rhodesian War
© Mike Subritzky - The Flak Jacket Collection
