The Way Back ©
Hamish M Anstruther
Written in 1967 at the time when terrorist activity in Aden was gradually subsiding.
The Argylls had re-taken the Crater district, and the possibility of a settlement to the conflict was in sight.
O Land! of fire and latent power,
That bleedeth red in thy twilight hour,
Whose sons pass on like fleeting dreams,
Once honoured, revered, in high esteem.
O Land! who gave us knowledge bright,
Wondrous teachings of stars and light,
Men of wisdom travelling far,
Fighting, conquering, winning wars.
O Land! torn by turmoil and strife,
Writhing, dying, losing life,
Hopeless causes, falling short,
Broken spirits, bodies that hurt.
But Hark! amid the anguish, a song
Triumphant sounding, a joyful throng!
New life shines through this memorable hour,
Swelling, blooming, a verdant flower!
This is one of a trilogy of Poems written in Aden by a serving soldier. The other two Poems are:-
'Ne Obliviscaris'
