I’m flustered

Struggling for air

My words tumble out of place

Before they are swallowed

By a beastly call

–

A noose tightens over the mind

Over its conquered frontier,  

Where a shredded banner waves

Welcome home to its marauders

–

As my fearful heart calms

I sew my own language

From the fabric of a lost tongue

With a stranger’s brogue

–

The words fall in line,

Row after row

Awaiting the command

To march through the fire