HMPRESENTLY: Writing an Ode

I had to look up ‘ode,’ before attempting to write one.

An ode, in my favorite online dictionary, is defined as “a lyric poem expressive of exalted or enthusiastic emotion.”

‘Emotion?’ In my ode, there’s some of that. ‘Exaltation?’ I’m sure hoping so, if this ode gets you thinking, some, about freedom and democracy.

Image result for public domain pictures of freedom

I’m sounding syrupy, I suppose, but full steam ahead!

Here’s my first-ever ode:

Oh thee among us, now

So desirous of dictators, now

Of thee, we lament

An authoritarian strutting, hyperbolizing and deceiving, some

A dictator-in-waiting’s will must not be done… even some

Let those who would diminish freedom know our commitment, some

To freedom surging on

Keep dictators-in-waiting from our hearts and souls

And make them rethink their goals

Keep freedom surging on!

Harvey Radin

Harvey Radin is former senior vice president in charge of corporate communications and media relations, Bank of America Western Region. He makes his home in Redwood City, CA.