Readying

By Cliff Lake

 

Readying

 

I have spoken of wars long ago,

But some knowledge I put aside –

Now there is more that you should know,

For we will again be sorely tried.

 

The black steeds and blacker brand,

Axe and sword and pike and pole,

To come against our sleepy land,

And leave no inhabitant whole.

 

The ancient enemy returns,

Trial and misery carried.

We must face this calm and stern:

Innocents are sorely harried.

 

Gloved hand, curled fist is unhidden,

Oiled words spake by split tongue,

Tribulation follows unbidden –

Too long have our bows lain unstrung!

 

In dense wood or in hidden hill,

Some are bonded with secret seal,

They recognize they old ill,

They polish shield and sharpen steel!

 

The token you too must now bear,

The foe would have these, our demesnes!

Together son we will now fare,

He gathers his war machines.

 

I have taught you rod, fist and steel,

Your arrow flies from deadly eye!

To this evil we will not kneel,

The time to wield your skills draws nigh!

 

Ancient order again ready,

I fight beside you my brave son!

Meet their eye and remain steady!

We face our foe under the sun!

 

Bested them thrice so far in duel,

Our strength now gathers this night.

Each time he returns more cruel,

Each time we take to him the fight!

 

We will sing loud, we will sing proud,

With iron visage and girded loin,

We are uncowed, we are unbowed,

We sing our message: Battle is joined!

 

Cliff Lake 8/3/2025

Copyright © Clifford Lake 2025

Location: Wichita, KS, USA

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