I haven’t posted many poems lately. Since Iran is in the news — and Iraq — this one strikes me as relevant. See the link below for a series of recent poems by Iranians.

ER

by Shoja Adel

Inspired by watching Baghdad on TV

June 24, 2006
iranian.com

He just turned 21 yesterday

ER turns to silence

Surgeon breaks the silence

I have good news and bad news

Well, I have to amputate both your legs

But the patient next to you

Wants to buy your shoes

Nobody laughed

Priest

I do not keep count

It would be overwhelming

His friend

His wound is worthy of a Purple Heart

He is going to Germany

Have a beer for both of us

Hang in there, hang in there buddy

Beep

Beep

Silence

Silence

Silence

It is ok to go

It is ok to go

Priest whispered to his ears

Inspired by watching TV
06-06-06

www.iranian.com