Death or Glory

Author’s Note: This poem is dedicated to a 14th century knight named Sir Thomas, who is probably my most misunderstood ancestor.

The two masses met from across

The open fields that were spring.

The wall of lances of the first line

Lowered on both sides.

In the far ends were the mounted

Cavalry that held their swords,

On high and for glory-

For glory of their kingdoms.

Both masses marched in

Unison across the open fields,

That glistened gold from-

Rays of the sun.

As one, both marched;

Never ceasing, never halting.

Only the sounds of

The calm winds prevailed.

But as the charge came forth,

The fields of spring-

Ran red, and all fell

Before the clashing of metal.

The sun fell and

The moon rose in splendor.

The coming of death-

For death or glory.