PRISON REGIME

The brutal relationship between prisoners and warders in a secret prison complex, where torture is used, unchecked by public opinion.

 

Behind iron bars and padlocked gates,

Beaten into shame, disassembling

Out of their bravado by fear -

The cold terror which stalks the corridors

As a concealed blade, with sharp intent

On tearing and ripping off

The hardened façade they wear -

As they defend themselves by

Punching the air with empty

Threats at anyone who may

Be listening - even their scum

In uniform who column and baton

These striped, rabid beggars,

Never missing a seasoned trick

To play their deadly game

Of “Strike the first blow” -

To chest, face and legs

- In lethal sport behind the safety

Of iron bars and padlocked gates

Reviews

[Peter Joseph Swanson]

Scary! Great poem!