Edward, Teach Him

[David Nelson Bradsher]

Edward, Teach Him

_{News headline, April 21st, 2009--Smiling Somali Pirate Weeps in Federal Court in New York City, Hearing Reopened to Public}

A pirate’s life for me, I said—with feeling—
when I was ten, engrossed within a book
about the pirate, Blackbeard—drinking, stealing,
and then concealing everything he took.

Forget the murders; I admired how
Queen Anne’s Revenge would haunt the grey Atlantic;
at least, until his head adorned its bow…
but never mind that part (it’s not romantic).

Today, I watched a CNN report
and saw a lone Somali pirate sob
during arraignment in a New York court.
I doubt that Blackbeard would indulge that mob

with pleas for quarter, or apologies.
I think, instead, he’d bellow, “Lads, let’s batten
down the hatches. Get up off your knees."
You know, I think that rogue could take Manhattan.

[Marion Poirier]

David,
I don't get your perspective. Either I'm really thick
or you are cynical. In any case, I know the incident;-
I can't comply with your reasoning -
being a pacifist;.
nevertheless it's a provocatve poem
from a pro.

Note:
On reconsideration, I believe it is tongue-in-cheek
that I've taken too literally.

Marion

[ramadevi]

Professional -yes, and provocative to, indeed!

I DO NOT KNOW THE Somali story- but i believe you are trying to hint that childhood impressions of pirates may be instrumental in setting a role model for future criminals to take pride in their work?

Anyway,my young nephews love anything to do with pirates.
Johnny Depp's movies surely contribute to this romantic outlook.

I love how you rhyme Atlantic with romantic.

Brilliant write, as always.

[David Nelson Bradsher]

Marion-

Glad you saw my intent. This was, indeed, a tongue-in-cheek comment on an adolescent's romantic ideal of despicable characters like Blackbeard.

Rama-

Thank you very much, my friend.

[Marion Poirier]

David, I was intrigued by the title as well as curious.
Interesting to find through search that Blackbeard
went by the name of Edward Teach.

Clever play on words.

M

[David Nelson Bradsher]

Good catch, Marion. I must admit I smugly smiled when that title hit me.