I Dissent

Among the consent of the governed, I dissent

 

Authoritarianism gaggles as windpipes rejoice

And flute players pied piper new polity

Playing in off keys of beguiling patriotism

 

Authoritarianism unsheathes from scabbard

Where revenge is that drawn double-edge

And serrated dagger the wily avenger’s ilk

 

Among the consent of the governed, I dissent

 

I dissent, with the passion of old prophets

And sage poets from foregone generations

Slain by double-edge and serrated dagger

 

I dissent, knowing freedom to do so is not

For certain the liberty of citizens assembled

In this our republic purchased by blood

 

Among the consent of the governed, I dissent.

 

© emmett wheatfall