Category: Writers Block
A bit of background. I wrote this when I was fourteen. The word Proddy is a derrogatory term for protestant. The word Fenian means "protector" in Irish and is synonymous with Irish republicans who are mostly Catholic... The word peeler is a slang word for the police although it is not necessarily derrog...
Fourteen
Fourteen years old,
The rain pouring down.
Alone on a corner,
Busy street in my town.
Waiting for friends
Who’d gone inside a shop.
Praying for hatred
And the cold rain to stop.
From a ways off I see him.
He’s all dressed in blue.
Pointing and laughing,
He hasn’t a clue.
I think I might know him.
He’s the cop on this beat.
Why’s he staring at me?
Why’s he crossing the street?
For once, I’ve done nothing,
Committed no crime!
He usually ignores me.
His eyes are focused this time.
I suddenly realize
He’s not on his shift.
“What ya want proddy copper?”
My tongue, it just slipped.
“It’s my favorite Fenian,”
he says with a smile.
“Haven’t seen you around,
been away for a while?”
And now, I am angry!
I can’t help but stare.
“Fuck off Proddy peeler!
You don’t really care.”
His eyes they grow colder,
And in a voice saccharin sweet,
“All you useless Fenians,
you lie, steal and cheat.”
I take a step back
My hands on my hips.
Again, I can’t help it,
My tongue, it justs slips.
“And all you fecking proddies,
you hate my Fenian pride.
That’s the reason Robert Emmitt
And gallant Connolly died.”
“You speak of Connolly,
a traitor to the Queen?
You speak of Fenians,
Of pride and wearing green?”
I’m looking straight at him.
His hand’s on his gun!
My pulse, jumpy quickens!
Should I turn and run???
“Living under tyranny
is survival at best.
Your queen has done nothing
But keep our people oppressed!”
Now he is angry.
His words cut like a knife.
I don’t think I’ve ever
Been this scared in my life.
He’s yelling at me
And I’m shouting back.
Then a moment of silence
and then the attack.
He unholsters his weapon.
My eyes fill with fear.
I say a quick prayer
His intentions are clear.
Out of the yelling
Come four fateful shots!
“See there little Fenian,
now look what you got.”
The pain it consumes me.
The ground is so cold.
And now I am dying,
Just fourteen years old…
Do you think we are that stupid dont bring your pro IRA terrorist nonsense here I remember Hyde Park where innocent horses lay with their guts spilling out bleeding to death from gaping weounds where their legs should have been!
And the countless young frightened British soldiers blown to bits by your lot,sick bloodthirsty murders! every 1.
That is your opinion and you are welcome to it. I'm not standing here saying I'm right and you're wrong, just relating a personal experience. Countless lives have been lost on both sides. Both sides have their thugs. I don't wish to fight with you about it so, keep your opinion and I'll keep mine. Let's move along, shall we?
Tiocfaidh ar laa,
Bridgett
Wow, the poem is very good, and you were my age when you wrote it. I think it's a good poem that talks about sticking up fory ourself and being brave and standing up for what you believe in, I don't know anything about the politics behind it and frankly I don't care. It's a good poem with truth in it. Good job.
I cannot relate to this poem, nor do i really know what its really about, but I can tell it has something to do with...communism? I dont know...but it touched my heart anyway...Is it about the corruption of police officers, which we also have in the US? Can anyone explain this to me?
I wish I could, lol, but I'm confused too, just liked the poetry. Anyway, it touched my ehart too, yay for it hehehe.
Caitlin
Communisim no but it has everything to do with terrorism and sectarianism look up the IRA on google and prepare to be horrified Al Qaeda could learn a thing or 2 from those murdering bampots!.
like bridget said, your welcome to your opinion goblin. But to yell it out? to ... to call her ...well her people murderers? I think there's a more pleasant way to voice your opinion than what you said.
and I really liked the poem. I liked it a lot. The way it rhymes and kind of flows. And ... hmm how do I say it? Not just the words I suppose. And I'm guessing this is fictional? he..
Hi all,
Alison, thank you. You are so correct. And, no, it is not fictional. It did really happen. As to those wondering about the politics, it has to do with some of us in Ireland who wish our country to be free of occupiers.
Goblin,
Examine the facts, please. Al Qaeda has nothing in common with the terrorism in The Six and that should be plain. The reason they bomb and kill is *very, very* different. I'm not going to say that Irish Republicans have not committed their share of attrocities, for to say that would mean I was extremely naive. I ask you. What about the girls at Holy Cross? They couldn't even walk to school without being insulted and having urine thrown on them. What about Ferry, McNichol, et al? What about young republicans who are terrorised by Gardaí, PSNI and the army every day? What about them? I also find it astounding that you'd as good as call me a terrorist when you do not know a thing about my politics. All you know is what you've read in my poetry and, if you've read my profile, you know that I work for Sinn Fein... Sinn Fein is committed to *peace*, remember? Seems that the UVF, UDA, UFF aren't. Why is it that Republican groups are forced to lay down their guns whilst it's ok for loyalist groups to continue to have them? Why is it that Republicans go to gaol for things that loyalists get away with on a daily basis? You should not assume that all of us who have been touched by the sad, unforgivable violence on both sides are terrorists. You should not assume that those of us who consider themselves nationalists/republicans are terrorists. If you got to know me, you'd probably like me. I have lots of friends from all political backgrounds. My best mate works in David Trimble's office. I don't hate you for your beliefs, and I love to debate, all I ask is that you keep an open mind. There are thugs on both sides and people on both sides have been wounded more than words can say. However, peace in Northern Ireland will not come until *all parties involved*, *lay down their guns*.
Tiocfaidh ar laa,
Bridgett
I called theIRA exactly what they are would you like me to lie or dress up the truth in a pretty poem
Goblin,
Just like most of your cohorts who oppose Irish freedom, you fail to answer a question. Isn't it funny how you do not wish to answer? Hmmmm, wonder what the reason behind that is. I've noticed that in life and in politics, when loyalist supporters are faced with the hard questions concerning the *fact* that Loyalists are just as responsible, they usually fail to respond at all. If they do respond, it is usually with veiled threats/insults or with statements which say lots without saying anything at all. Maybe, you know that I've got a point. You don't have to shed your opinion, but you should realize that Loyalists commit acts of terrorism too. To forget this or fail to see it would imply that you are extremely naive and unaware of what is currently going on in Northern Ireland. I think, from your profile, you are from Scotland? Therefore, you do not live in Northern Ireland so it is impossible for you to have a true picture of what is going on here. I am not asking you to lie, but rather to start telling the truth. Acknowledge that loyalists are just as culpable.
Tiocfaid ar laa,
Bridgett
freedom through terrorism is murder what was the reason for Eniskillen or Hyde Park or any of the other cold blooded acts of murder that the IRA and their cohorts have carried out can you explain why your friends felt the need to kill people and animals to further their cause!."You are from Scotland so you don't live in NI" talk about stating the fecking obvious do you feel superior when you address people as if they are mentally disabled hmm?.I'm from Glasgow a city torn apart by sectarianism and full of mindless eejits who spray paint nationalistic insults i.e UP THE IRA! Ect without having the 1st idea what it means so don't spit your poison at me.
I am not a loyalist its so typical of you idiots to label someone and dont bother to throw that back in my face as you undoubtedly will I call you what you are terrorists.are killers end of story.
Okay well like I said I don't understand the politics, but like Alison said, this poem is truly great, you should get it published!
Caitlin
It's cool because the ellegance of it is that it's so simple, and it sounds so childlike in a way, but it's very mature under all that.
Goblin. My grandparents are from ireland. My grandpa from Belfast and my grandma from cavin.
As I feel that your entitled to yoru opinion, I disagree with the statement that the IRA is nothing but terrorism. Might I suggest maybe looking at both sides of an isue before flapping your trap? I take my heritage seriously.
oh yes. and just remember bloody sunday. Need I say more!
you can say that my people are terrorists, but you are no better.
Lol Liam, you go! I"m totally confused, but it sounded good.
Caitlin
Yes, Liam, let's not forget Bloody Sunday. Let's not forget the British army shooting thirteen people in cold blood for no justifyable reason. Let's remember that some of those people were not even eighteen. We shouldn't forget that. And, the other Bloody Sunday. At a football match... As for you Goblin, there are more death/accidents cause by loyalists in 2004 then there have been by republicans in the past three years. You should look up the fatal/nonfatal attacks in Ireland and the North. As for addressing you as though you are mentally disabled, I have done no such thing. Relax, and stop reading stuff into statements. You claim not to be a loyalist but you sure act like one... I'll answer your question but we'll not forget that you still haven't answered mine... Why did/do we feel the need? It's simple. To reunite Ireland. To force the British government to relinquish it's hold over the north. To reclaim our country which rightfully belongs to every Irishman -- Catholic and Protestant... That's why.
It's pretty sad when you go to Ireland, and you can't walk on armor road because your catholic. I didn't understand why I couldn't do that. There were soldiers everywhere. it was really wierd. I was only 7 then, but.. It really made me think.
That's what's so good about this poem, it's because it's true that it has so much power and meaning I think. DOn't you guys agree lol?
Caitlin
And those soldiers haven't gone away.
They're still there, even after Liam was seven, so that means they're ike 11 years? How long have they been there, and how long will they stay?
Caitlin
I don't see why you can't walk down a road because your catholic..
What, Goblin, of the beautiful young lass who no longerwalks without a limp? What of the countless nights and days of excruciating pain she'll go through? And just who's the terrorist, when Bridgett must be terrified to go to a casualty department--if she's ill, for fear some loyalist pigg will rape her? Yes, They Do that, too. What about that, Goblin? What about that? I love this gal dearly and will defend her if need be with my life. Are you so humane, sir? A brit taught the Indians how to scalp. Need I say more?
guideleopard.
Think about it.
Alison,
The reason that Catholics are unable to walk in certain places in Ireland is that loyalists have a tendency to harass, beat up and terrorize anyone who might not believe the way they do. Some parts of Belfast are very unsafe for republicans. Young men get killed walking home at night. It's sickening.
Guideleopard,
While I appreciate the sentiments and you too know that I would give my life for you, my friend, the central issue has nothing to do with me. The central issue is the reuniting and unoccupying of Ireland. A smaller issue is the fact that Goblin seems afraid to answer questions in direct dialogue. He knows how to insult and make veiled threats. He knows how to pout when he doesn't like what I write but he seems not to know how to answer a question.
Goblin,
My advice to you. If you don't like what I post on this board, don't read it. I have gotten quite a bit of support for the things I've posted and I will continue to do so. Although not all my writing has to do with Irish Republicanism, a good bit of it does. I will not refrain from posting it because you are offended. Would I have done so if you had approached me in a different manner? Probably. You are the only one who gets you angry... I don't get you angry. You are the one who has control over what you read, so, if you don't like what I post, don't read it. As with everything in life, some people will love it, some will like it and some will think it's a piece of shite. I don't waste my time on things that anger/don't interest me. I was baited into this debate with you in the hopes that you would at least admit the culpability of the loyalists as well. Since you have failed to see that they, too, have committed attrocities, since you have failed to speak the truth, I feel it is up to me to let those who are interested know what is really going on. People have a write to know the truth. Does all the blame rest with the loyalists? Of course not. Does it rest with the Republicans? Again, of course not. It is my opinion that the blame should be placed on the officials who make up the government and, I have many examples that I could use to back up my opinion on the matter. Before you accuse me of attempting to feel superior or addressing you as though you are mentally disabled, I have done neither. I am no better than the rest in the world, and I have afforded you the same respect I would afford anyone else. It seems to me that you don't wish to afford me that same respect but that is your choice.
Tiocfaidh ar laa SAOIRSE!
Bridgett
Dear me no wonder people think the Irish are crazy what about those who are no longer around to bloody walk!
So you blew people to pieces to justify your political ends your insane!.
Ah, Goblin, fuck off. Hearing you compare the IRA to Al Qaeda is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. Bridgett is a great person, and I consider her a close friend. I can't help but laugh upon hearing you call her a terrorest. Don't go spouting your ignorent bullshit unless you know the facts.
*end rant*
Yes, that was pretty rediculous if you ask me. Just another example of someone who spouts a good stream of spit with nothing behind it worth mentioning... Sorry I forgot to call you yesterday. I got caught up in a project. I'll ring you tonight.
That's perfectly fine. I was sort of busy myself anyway. Hope your doing well.
its a great poem. no matter what the meaning behind this poem, but it really touch my heart. great job. you should publish it though.
Dear me you fawn over a woman who see's nothing wrong in killing to free her country doesn't Bin Laden have the same agenda hmmm.
I don't think so... Seems strange though. I'm direct and to the point and all you do is spout insults. Perhaps, you should become a politician.
Good grief! Bridget has every right to post this poem and speak her mind. So why argue about it?
Goblin, if you want to dis the IRA, there are bette examples than horses! christ, fight fire with fire, not half baked platitudes.
One man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter. Whilst we should not glorify or romanticise, we should recognise the scars of history. I come from a millitiary family, having relationships who served in Ireland. I know they were only doing their jobs. I can't speak for all the soldiers, but the media only recognised the pain caused, and not the good. There is a place for everyone's oppinion, but i feel uncomfortable about exposed young minds to a questionable cause, no matter how much we try not to. Unfortunately, many Americans have an over romanticised view of Irelnd, a view based on ignorance and lack of knowledge. The IRA are from saints, they injured civillians on the mainland, and are often cruel. The real blight here is religion, the root and course of most evil.
Well said, Idle. My grandfather was from Belfast, and I learned some about the conflict and the republicans' struggle. Goblin, do you not think terrorism is an attempt to gain freedom or solidarity through aggression? No, I'm not actively supporting any terrorist groups, but I can see why many embrace terrorism around the world as a means to an end. Who's to say whether in different circumstances you, or I, or any of us, might be driven to terroristic actions. I agree that religion is a the root of this problem, but I'm not totally convinced it matters so much anymore. Do you not think that religiosity seems to have taken a back seat in this particular conflict? Or is it still as central as it was three hundred years ago. I'm all for the dissolution of churches and public religious endorsement (hell, I'd be happy if religion was wiped off the face of the earth), but I realise practically that will never happen in my lifetime. However, I suspect that even without the catholicism/protestantism feud, the IRA would still feel the need to fight. Essentially, and perhaps some of the british /irishers on this board might be able to shed some light on this, I'm wondering how much the CHurch of England really has to do with this anymore.
As for the poem..well, to be honest I found it a little on the cheesy side, however the expressed sentiments are understandable and all too stark and real.
hey bridgett its mel wow nice poem dang! wooo