“…they have failed to tell the truth, preferring a safe distance” ~ Yevtushenko
Maybe I disappoint, but now I prefer
That safe distance Yevtushenko condemned
Because in media res all is chaos
The immediacy of emotion and pain
The best of intentions, sodden with blood
Conflicting condemnations stinging with pain
Choosing to be involved, and then condemned
The sneers and scorn of an ungrateful nation
Only in reflection, with confusion crossed
Does a man learn whether he won or lost