POEM FOR LIAM

Small boy
raised in the shadow of prejudice
who will teach you your secrets

how to be a man
despite the malignment of masculinity

the synthesis of kindness
and strength that marks manhood

the fine art of threading flies
to tickle tinted trout

the joy of punting a bloated bladder
across a puddled paddock

to commune with your kin
and be enlightened by their experience

and to incorporate the peculiar pain
peculiar to men

Liam bereaved of your birthright
never forget he who is half of you

rise over the subtle subjugation
of your slandered sex
and stand tall

Printed by permission.

This page last updated October 2, 1995 by: