The Holocaust’s Victims -A Nonet

      16 Comments on The Holocaust’s Victims -A Nonet

paraded and herded like cattle

scatted and pelted like street dogs

counted and cooped like poultry

numb and gelid they lie

only thing human

is a desire

for a quick

smokeless

death

16 thoughts on “The Holocaust’s Victims -A Nonet

  1. Laissez Faire

    Know what I really love about this poem. How each line is shorter than the last, then the three the same size as if they are building up, until — bam — death. Very powerful visual with the format.

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  2. asha

    I love the way each line decreased one syllable. That was a very effective way to wind the pace down to the final word. This was powerful, both in content and form.

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  3. Rowan

    I love using precise words like gelid, although sometimes we have to be careful to make sure that context clarifies their imagery. For myself, I’m not sure about the ending; it’s powerful, but feels more like an author projection than an interpretation of the actual accounts of survivors.

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    1. admin Post author

      Yes , you are right Rowan! I should have used ‘maybe’ or some other words to show that these were my thoughts.Appreciate your keen eye and feedback.

      Reply
  4. Christine

    As others have said, you picked a great form for this difficult subject matter. It’s a winding-down, a trickling-away, a tightening screw. Nicely done.

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