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a memorial to Neda Agha Soltan

The Red Street

the streets are broad in Tehran
thirsty for sustenance
soldiers of the supremacy
will provide it
full measure
not with water
but with blood
running like a river
into the gutters of Kargar Avenue
the colors of oppression
are shades of red
sprinkled with droplets
of fear and dread
piercing like a lance
the heart of hope
strangling like a rope
the throat of faith
as innocence dies
on the ruby road
the masters of murder
sit in their tents
covering their ears
mouths and eyes
secure in their falsehood
oblivious to their crimes
these are the times
of suffering and sorrow
desolation reigns
in the soul of Iran
this is the moment
to take the brush
and erase from history
the depravity of man

© 2009 John M. Marshall