Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

longship

(40,416 posts)
Tue Nov 11, 2014, 03:42 PM Nov 2014

"Grass" by Carl Sandburg, for Veterans Day.

Pile the bodies high at Austerlitz and Waterloo.
Shovel them under and let me work—
I am the grass; I cover all.

And pile them high at Gettysburg
And pile them high at Ypres and Verdun.
Shovel them under and let me work.
Two years, ten years, and passengers ask the conductor:
What place is this?
Where are we now?

I am the grass.
Let me work.


Carl Sandburg, 1918.
2 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
"Grass" by Carl Sandburg, for Veterans Day. (Original Post) longship Nov 2014 OP
Stunning, in both its simplicity and its deep complexity. Thank you. n/t Psephos Nov 2014 #1
I've always found it a profound statement against war. longship Nov 2014 #2

longship

(40,416 posts)
2. I've always found it a profound statement against war.
Tue Nov 11, 2014, 03:49 PM
Nov 2014

OP post edited, first published in 1918.

Thank you.

Latest Discussions»General Discussion»"Grass" by Carl...