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Contemporary International Poetry
issue 9903:41

Maryann Hazen

An unknown soldier in a never-ending war
Ran into the night like he never ran before.
Sneak a glance behind, breath puffs in and out.
Body wet with mist or sweat, not a moments doubt.

Pumping limbs not stumble now, slapping branches strike.
Gritting teeth in fury as he plunged into the night.
Fled to tell the others of what would lie in wait.
Lashing out his arms in vain, fending off their fate.

Heavy boots pounding ground, chest heaving hot with strain,
Onward tracks the soldier, having eyes that spied such pain.
Howling winds companion, stride for stride kept pace.
Until he reaches safety, Lord, until they see his face.