Tag Archives: patriotism

Some Kind of All American

When this life of mine is over, if it’s been of any worth Royal Oak can lay a claim as the place of my birth, and where my ash is scattered they may choose to put a plaque; the rest … Continue reading

Posted in Poems, Songs, Statements | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Hello Mister America

Hello Mister America, you’re just in time for tea There’s no Kennedys or Rockefellors, so I guess it’s just you and me I’ve got soda crackers instead of crumpets, but I think you’ll agree We’ve got to watch the deficit … Continue reading

Posted in Poems, Songs, Statements | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

In seventeen and forty one

In seventeen and forty one, my family reached these shores; each generation since that time has fought this country’s wars. Against the French, and then the Britons, then in Union blue; the Spanish, Mexican and Natives, when each call came … Continue reading

Posted in Poems | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

The Light of America

America, your shadow casts a lengthy darkness where it should serve as a lamp to guide the blind; and those enemies you imagine beyond your hallowed gates, fermenting with opportunities to express their angst and shake you from your complacent … Continue reading

Posted in Poems, Statements | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

America, I know your secret

America, I know your secret: there is no deep intellectual struggle fermenting in your collective mind — that’s for the coasts to sort out amongst themselves, with their isolationist disdain for solidarity, thinking that beyond the Holland Tunnel, above the … Continue reading

Posted in Poems, Statements | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Decoration Day: a complaint or lamentation

Bang the drum and sound the horn! Wash and press the uniforms. From each window flags are flown; now the troops at last come home. Proud young sons and daughters, too; freedom’s torch they’ve borne for you. Through the world … Continue reading

Posted in Poems | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Being American

So, I’m un-American? Maybe it’s true. I’m un-American, how about you? I believe in progress, and free speech, too; In equal rights for strangers – you? I will not support war red, white or blue – but will defend my … Continue reading

Posted in Poems, Statements | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment