Villanelle to a Noble Enemy

by Larry Chamberlin   May 25, 2018


Unfurl your flag, let your marching tune soar
in defeat nonetheless you stood your ground
your bravery earned the Honours of War.

As men wailed and bodies piled by the door
a mournful dirge o’er raging battle did sound
unfurl your flag, let your marching tune soar.

Despairing not you showed esprit de corp
without hope yet upheld pride most profound
your bravery earned the Honours of War.

Our shots were fired true, blood flooded your floor
yet you returned fire for each comrade downed
unfurl your flag, let your marching tune soar.

Three days you held off an army before
at last your captain in his own blood drowned
your bravery earned the Honours of War.

Every defender was covered in gore
not a bullet left not one single round
unfurl your flag, let your marching tune soar
your bravery earned the Honours of War.

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Latest Comments

  • 5 years ago

    by Mr. Darcy

    Larry, I hope someone nominates this finely executed piece.

    Just the thought of its complexity makes my temples throb!

  • 5 years ago

    by CânnâBîsh

    I'm honestly speechless.. This is amazing!

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