“Tears” by Niki Katiki
were I chief
you would know me
as Broken Wing
sad from the anger
of brave crippled souls
of a sudden
black moment
denied of their
custom and means
to fly free
over thousand-year
landscapes brought forth
from the womb
of the sky when
proud eagles were young
swart warriors strong
when the horse
and the buffalo
chased the fleet winds
across limitless ground
when my sacred
glass tears
were reserved
for my fathers
instead
of my sons
From my book Pieces of Wine
Shades of Buffy St Marie at her very best. A fine poem to both read and think on.
LikeLiked by 1 person
no surprise that you’d be among her retinue – she helped (helps?) advance our social consciousness
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think I was in my late teens when I discovered her music. A song she’d written at just 17 years, ‘Until it’s Time for You to Go’…later ruined by Presley…got me hooked, ‘After the Buffalo are Gone’ ensured she had a new fan forever.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your lines are mesmerizing weaving stories of remembrance, war, loss, mourning, inheritance, fathers and sons. The title is gorgeously poetic.
LikeLiked by 1 person
thank you most sincerely for your generous comments
LikeLiked by 1 person
They are well deserved and come from a heartfelt place.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Powerful and stirring lines.
LikeLiked by 1 person
many thanks
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely brilliant with facets of stained`glass illuminated . . . What a gifted poet you are, my friend!
LikeLiked by 1 person
thanks from the heart, my friend
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good Lord. Gorgeous. Wow……
LikeLiked by 1 person
I deeply appreciate your moving comments – thank you so much
LikeLiked by 1 person
My pleasure. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Superb, Paul.
LikeLiked by 1 person
many thanks, baldy
LikeLike
So poignant yet especially moving, powerful, Paul.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I appreciate that most sincerely
LikeLike