Villanelle for Human Rights

(For the 75th anniversary of the UDHR, 10th Dec. 2023)

They dare to trample on our human rights
Around this world injustice still occurs
Let’s use the power of words to show our might.

It’s fine for us, the ones who’ve seen the light
Too many despots still abuse their powers
They dare to trample on our human rights.

Food and shelter; medicine; for those who fight
Against vile tyranny? Diplomacy prefers
We use the power of words to show our might.

And “Land of the Free” – you should be contrite
Less free post Roe v Wade, choice interred
How dare you trample on our human rights.

Why educate weak girls? Those who are bright
Malala-like will open others’ eyes and she conspires
To use the power of words to show our might.

In 75 years’ time will it be alright?
How can we overcome the autocrat who errs
And dares to trample on our human rights?
Let’s use the power of words to show our might.

Boakesey Closs

Boakesey is a former teacher, who lives on the Isle of Man and is the current (IXth) Manx Bard. She has been published locally and in the Places of Poetry anthology, Poetry for Mental Health and is in the Lancaster Litfest Poetry Mosaic. She is a stroke survivor and is physically challenged but it does not stop her from writing.

.