Elegy for a Soldier

By Ben Jasnow

I spoke to a boy
Who said he'd be a soldier.
He looked the part:
Straightened eyes
That seemed to see
The consequence;
A handshake
That assured protection,
As long as you were friends;
Forearms lined with ridges;
Torso narrowed
To the bone at the waist.
He was health and youth,
Immaculate,
As he must be
If he is to make a sacrifice.

 

And the flesh on his cheeks,
Blooming red—
Two flowers.
This is why
They put the lily
On the casket.

 

Before you go,
Smile for your mother,
Blush for your girlfriend;
Let them weave themselves
A garland
From your looks.
When you've gone,
They can close their eyes
And wear it.

Published January 2009