Venice masks

Sunday, 10 November 2024

A celebration of peace (for Adam Curle) - Konai Helu Thaman

 today we come together
 to read and sing of peace
 lay aside our differences
 rise and greet the breeze
 there’s no need to explain
 define or defend our theme
 question our ancestors
 about their silent dreams
 no need to blame the rain or pain
 for crying on the phone
 no need to ask how far the tide
 will come to meet our bones
 when all is said and done
 you’ll have to give up soon
 the things that make you what you are
 the things you think you own
 a spouse a house
 a child a friend
 the land your customs
 even the pain
 for when you’re left with nothing
 only wings to lift you up
 you’ll see how fast your soul is trembling
 freedom trapped in a cup
 seize it now hold it tight
 have no fear you’re there
 let me whisper no i’ll shout
 peace is in the air

Konai Helu Thaman (born 1946) Tonga
Source: Poems, Konai Helu Thaman, Kunapipi, 27(2), 2005

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