My Mother The War - Natalie Merchant

She borders the pavement
flanks avenues
parades pass
white glove attended by

My mother the war

She'll raise a shaft
lift a banner
toss a rose

My mother the war

She knows every neighbor
chats at their doors
compare
econo-size electric appliances
come share tea
and a seat by my
cradle with

My mother the war

Forsaken vigil
three years each tour
hands of God enfold him
prayed mother of war
haunt a doorway
beg a postman
is there word
for mother the war
5 black stars

In bitter defiance
she's spiting the corps
wet a brood
short league for combat

My mother the war

Well acquainted
with sorrow
with grief

My mother the war

Folded lace
carrion
blood soaked robes
folded lace
carrion
blood soaked
shroud

Mother the war

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