He dreamt of entanglement
Devoid of camouflage, ammunition, and helmet
Devoid of cries from launchers and crossfires
But of clinking glasses and desires.
Gallantly stomping the earth
He bid his co-survivors farewell
With a nostalgic mixed breath
And silence for comrades that fell
His happy boots headed home
Amidst surprising hoots, compassion, and instant silence
His heavy bride was giving wine to her groom
With the same promise, he also received yesteryear
Now brideless, homeless like an orphaned bird
He pleads guilty to sojourning to serve his homeland.
…A poem about life by Hope Idieli
[Hope Idieli, who also publishes his writings as Hope Ajagun has been inspired to write this poem on the occasion of the immense sacrifices paid by military officers and their spouses who endured untold loneliness in the midst of regular absenteeism. ‘Silence at Noon’ is a poem about betrayal, love, hope, emptiness that are antecedents of life]