Rain over Vietnam
There is the calm before the rain
It’s almost silent all around
The clouds expectant in the sky
Foreboding birds are homeward bound.
The soldiers stare at looming clouds
There is the calm before the rain
And yet there’s tension in the air
Will all this waiting be in vain?
They know the feeling well enough
The sun gets left out in the cold
There is the calm before the rain
They have to be prepared and bold.
The sound of planes will soon be heard
Torrential bombs will fall again
But ‘til the heavens burst in floods
There is the calm before the rain.
Inspired by the song “Have you ever seen the rain?”
Sung by Credence Clearwater Revival.
With underlying reference to the Vietnam War.
Paul Callus is a Maltese author who writes both in Maltese and English. He has contributed to several anthologies. Apart from poetry he writes lyrics for songs and has published two books, one a story book aimed at children (related to his experience as a teacher) and a historical book based on research.
I truly love the way you write Paul. You express the contrast of beauty with the angst of war taking one's emotions along for the rollercoaster ride. This poem is one of the most beautiful I have read on these Whisper's pages! Blessings for a beautiful holiday, Connie
ReplyDeleteThank you very much Connie! Your insightful comments are both lovely and encouraging. You are too kind:) May you have a joyous festive season. // paul
DeleteI love "the sun gets left out in the cold." More importantly, Paul, I appreciate how you were able to respond to a song with *lyrics* and a definite style with a poem that is all your own.
ReplyDeleteAnd I love your lovely comments, too, Marianne! Thank you very much. // paul
DeleteSplendid poem, Paul!
ReplyDeletePleased that you enjoyed, Terry; many thanks for the 'splendid' comment! // paul
DeletePaul,
ReplyDeleteI am not familiar with the song, but I think you did a fine job on this poem!
Your friend,
David Fox
Thank you for reading and enjoying, David. The song goes back several years, but it's available on you tube. All the best for Christmas and the new year. // paul
DeletePaul,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the visits to my page..I appreciate you reading and taking time to comment..I wish you a very merry Christmas..
Sara
Thank you Sara. I enjoy reading your poetry, that's why you find me knocking at your door! Hope you had a joyous Christmas and may you have a happy and rewarding new year. God bless. // paul
DeleteThank you, Gerald Heyder, for the following--
ReplyDeleteDear Paul--The US picked up where the French left off, that war accomplished nothing! I'm not a Vietnam Bet, but I'm and ex-GI who served my hitch during that era. Enough said.
Thank you Gerald. The Vietnam War left many people disillusioned; others physically / mentally handicapped. Many scars still exist. // paul
DeleteThank you, Eleanor Michael, for the following--
ReplyDeleteDo I recognize a form, but not remember its name? Repeated, traveling line. The last verse/stanza seems to show the other side. The sense of waiting is strong throughout. My son says he has the song on 33. --Eleanor
Thank you for stopping by to read Eleanor, and for your comments. Yes, you are right; there is a form here....it's a Quatern. All the best. // paul
DeleteThank you, John Polselli, for the following--
ReplyDeleteA powerful message poem that is a haunting metaphor. Chilling and well done, Paul.
Thank you John for the insightful comments. All the best. // paul
ReplyDelete