Sad, how our meddling destroys so much AND we weren't asked to interfere. This is a masterpiece and here we are even 2 more years further down and the mess ever greater...

It's sad. But Iraq symbolizes the rest of the world. We'd better realize it soon and do something about it. Unless ALL of us learn compassion for ALL of us, we're done for. Timely poem, my friend. Thank you, Ron. Love and peace to you. Regis

Absolutely stunning, Ron; this truly is a masterpiece, I think. A lament, celebration and word-picture that lives and breathes all in one. Taught me a thing or two, too. And thanks for your comment on Flamenco In The Castle - yes, the percussionist sat on the small amp and played it like a bongo between his knees; first time I had seen that, too! It worked fine! No disturbance to the sound output - but mind you, it WAS very windy anyway, which created feedback of its own. Maybe it might have sounded a little less sophisticated on a still night... interesting, though! :)) Kate xx

A fine epic poem. It sounds as though you/ve been there.

Hank

the contrasting images work perfectly in this outstanding poem ...

A huanting tribute to a once proud land. Now just a shadow of it's former glory...

Well said. Thank you for sharing this...

You brought the full reality of this situation to focus with your use of descriptions and emotons. This is one of the best writes I have seen on this subject. Fantastic write.

Ron this is an outstanding poem! The analogy so deeply felt one minute i'm sharing a fantasy of Arabian nights the next I'm in the middle of the present horrific violence. A stunning capture. Thanks for sharing!

Love, Eileen

Very powerful dream Ron!!

Love Tinka

Life is so fragile and can change in the blink of an eye. There but for the grace of God go we; this could easily become our own streets. Your poem is packed with gut-wrenching truths about how humankind refuses to evolve. It smacks hard like a frozen towel to the face, reminding us of how quickly our own lives can change and all that we know to be true, disappear forever.
Take care,
Sherry

Ron, This wasn't a dream, it was a nightmare in sobering truths.
You've told it the way it needed to be told. Wisely, and truthfully.
Excellent.

Lisa

I'm speechless, Ron... you have brought the art of contrast to perfection. This piece is so involving I needed to shake myself after reading it, or, maybe it was an involuntary shudder to go with the very audible gasp. I'll save this, of course... but I will also share it with many.

I cannot but bow deeply to this special, bold, amazing piece! katy xox

This is quite a powerful poetic dream, Ronald - and such a powerfully sad one.

A wonderful and graphic take on the horrors of Iraq
" When the shit hits the fan , keep your head down ! "
You display exceptional qualities in this composition Rod
Peter