On the Many Shades of Protest (& Prayer)

I. blank sheets of paper
stand like soldiers
(invisible) ink speaks *

II. police tape hugs
weeping willow’s trunk
limbs bend in prayer **

III. tourists teeter as
nightfall weeps
winds whisper in empty streets ***

IV. white papers
yellow w(t)rappings
red tape — familiar fates

* Regions throughout China
** City streets throughout the United States
*** Travel warnings proliferate

About the Poem

This piece is a reflection on world events from the lens of a local (moment in time) perspective. Small haiku unite protest and prayer.

About the Author

Jen Schneider is an educator who lives, works, and writes in small spaces throughout Pennsylvania.

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