[Maryann Corbett]

Here's another entry:

9/11 Revisited.
Written on the occasion of the award-winning Naudet documentary, 2002

I've just escaped the rage of dust that filled the City's heart.

I've watched the silver arrow thrust within and tear apart

the centre of a universe. I've seen the flames and smoke.

I've heard the city's cry and curse before the sudden choke

of silence as the disbelief held momentary sway;

I've shuddered as the tide of grief swept disbelief away.



I've cried with every witness as the second missile hit.

I've shared their helpless sickness as the towers began to spit

through gaping maws the living dead, and retched at every thud;

I've withered as the tears they shed unchecked became a flood.

I've climbed with heroes as each floor was gained by guts and drive;

I've heard the wounded giants roar, beheld their final dive.

I've known the wretched weight of guilt the stunned survivors bore;

I've felt my spirits sag and wilt with theirs—then rise before

the "save and rescue" creed. Beneath the rubble mountain lay

their buddies and their fellows. Grief must wait another day.



I've seen the evil that men do and witnessed trust's demise;

I've been and seen and felt it through the camera's faithful eyes;

and though the screen has darkened now on gallantry and shame,

I know my carefree life somehow will never be the same.