KOSOVO REWIND

KOSOVO REWIND

Wolfgang's uniform
Hangs with solemn pride
In his wardrobe
In every brain cell
In every waking moment
And in his dreams
The sound of gunfire
The smell of cordite
The sight of crumpled
Bodies in the ditch
Terrified expressions
On their faces.

The uniform
Directs frequent inspection
Brushing
Polishing of brass
The skull denoting
Occupation
Just like plumber
Motor mechanic
Vermin exterminator
Balkan village sanitiser.

The uniform
Influences quantities
Of alcohol consumed
Frequency and duration
Of domestic discipline
Frau und Kinder
Celebration of
The Führer's birthday
The desolation
Of madness.

As all this
Is repeated
Ninety nine.

Footnote: This poem is dedicated to Gaby Luft.