The spin-doctors favoured

Pincher movements, to ambush

The views of opponents;

Meanwhile, citizens hold their

Breath, as they enjoy

Every minute, every piece

Of the imperfect peace.

 

How long is a piece

Of string?

As long as the journey

To a new beginning?

A yellow brick road,

Where peace is king.

 

By Sean Maguire

 

Published 2001 in “Burning Voices”  - anthology

 

Runner-up, Books Across The Border Competition

November 2000