As events unfold across the world on this day (which is Day 789 of the Daily Poems) there is a ceasefire in Gaza. By the frozen waters of the Potomac, Donald Trump continues to reveal himself as a narcissist with no soul. Our poet Simon Haines is understandably uncertain about what’s next, and is fearful for the future of his grandchildren.
Uncertain: what’s next
Trump bellows, the world quakes –
a Jack-and-the-Beanstalk ogre.
Fe-Fi-Fo-Fum.
Gaza trembles –
Will the bombing resume?
Will we find our homes still standing?
Louis’ had a good night’s sleep
he’ll be at his nursery soon
so he’ll miss the inauguration.
The phone-in’s all about Trump, of course
We need him here, some say,
others: Does he threaten democracy?
This challenges Louis’ vocabulary, okay are
Mamma, Dadda, cat and crackers,
but not threaten or democracy.
Simon Haines