Sketches for a Battle Canvas by William Goldstein

Lieutenant Rosoman was shot through both legs.
To his vest pocket, three years later,
The commendatory medal was pinned.

Marshal Soult carried Jena
But was not so effective at Waterloo:
Yet he didn’t stand against the wall.

Von Stauffenberg failed in East Prussia
And was executed – as were 5000 others.

For all this heroism – blind
Figs and oak leaves;
Against the crossed swords of
Conclusion: one dazzling moment
Illuminating a history book.

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William Goldstein is a chemist by trade. He lives and works in Los Angeles. All rights reserved.

Photo credit: Larry Thacker www.larrydthacker.com