This is a prequel to my other WWI poem Where Once Stood Men.
Church Bells Rang
When she spoke her voice was soft and warm
They met at the village church one Sunday morn
Searching for words to say he walked her home
Holding hands, never wanting to leave her side
Cherry blossoms whispered in cool morning breeze
Petals fell, swirling to the ground through silvery mist
A blanket of red and pink covered the muddy ground
The sweet scent filled their nostrils as they passed by
Late spring turned to summer as romance bloomed
Marvelling in her dimples every time she laughed
When the call came he answered, joining with his pals
But now one last night together with the girl he loves
At the village dance they swayed to the music
Arm around his sweetheart, holding her close
Feeling her warmth, her curves, loves first blush
Whispering in her ear, thoughts of her close
Leaving the dance, hand and hand they walked
Up the hill in moonlight as wispy clouds rolled by
Soft music faded into the cool night air below
Village lights flickered as merriment continued
Their last night together before he marched forth
She will give him a precious gift with a promise
She will wait for him as he promises in return
They will marry when he returns home a hero
They came from villages, towns and cities
Farmers, bankers, clerks, students and shop boys
Leaving mothers, fathers, wives and sweethearts
All answering the call of King and Country
From all corners of the land excited whispers ran
And with shouts of joy the church bells rang
A hero’s farewell as soldiers marched to war
A living memento mori shrouded in cheer
Copyright © 2014 Shawn D. Standfast. All rights reserved.
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