The End of the Argument by Martina Reisz Newberry

The End of the Argument

by Martina Reisz Newberry

Adam’s torso, it is said, was made from earth
taken from Babylonia. That may be,
but it’s all-fall-down time there now; it’s watch-out-
the-sky’s-on-fire time. The burquas are burning,
Ogals and gutrahs are birds escaping flames,
escaping smoke and gunfire. Kaffiyeh fly
as well, but not far. Ezekiel’s fire would
be a tender release compared to this
vestibule of pain. I watch humankind’s coil
unravel. War turns us to confetti,
rain on a dismal parade. The proud Duranni Empire is ash
and shadow. Our restoration promises
reek of braised flesh and singed hair.
The Quran spells out equality. I think it means that all
sweet souls, gender aside, may die the same deaths.

End of the poem

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