Independence Day Revised - Charles Reisch

[Larry Robinson]

Independence Day Revised

Manchester by the Sea 
History papered with the Stars 
and Stripes
 
some the size of a one story home 
The story known by heart
here in this cradle of liberty

Red, White and 
Blue with memories of what we took 
for granted
 
Commercialism and a day off 
blunt the message.
How do you like your burger? 

Everywhere the sound of small 
marching bands and waving flags 
Rat a tat tat The snare will not be denied 

And when are the fireworks
those bright perseids seemingly from 
another constellation?
  
Then as if a reminder of the sacrifices
made... the latest casualty

news of a young man who fell
victim to a cherry bomb 

Freedom has it’s price 
you know.

	- Charles Reisch