Railroaded!

Railroaded!

A Poem by Dara

I met a man of another race

whose pain he bore

behind a strong smooth face.

When he looked at me

with those dark brown eyes

I was instantly attracted

I felt hypnotized.

We talked about life and the

obstacles he met

and how he overcame them

with tenacity and grit.

He was an athlete, scholar and family man

but ended up serving time

in a local state pen.

After three years in lock up and

five more for probation

he felt angry and violated

and under constant supervision.

They had railroaded him hard

exchanging innocence for

notorious fame,

slapped him with a label

and stole his name.

Now the internet owns his photo and more

adding misery and humiliation

to the pain he once bore.

© 2018 Dara


Author's Note

Dara
Based on a true story.

My Review

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Reviews

Wow, a refreshingly raw and real lens to a human being, rather than the "inmate" label. Many people overlook those with criminal records without realizing circumstance. This is beautiful.

Posted 6 Years Ago


Dara

6 Years Ago

Thank you for this insightful review. I do appreciate your thoughts very much!
Oh yes, what a sad, sad state of affairs. You write this very effectively in a simple but strong poem. Good rhymes and a steady 'jog along' beat. We have photos on the internet page of my town, with the caption, 'The town's most dangerous men'. How on earth are these people supposed to rehabilitate when they are condemned in such a way. The trouble is, if you label someone 'bad,' that may well be what they become. But your 'man from another race' seems to have huge patience and dignity. I wonder how he has the strength to deal with it al?


Posted 6 Years Ago


Dara

6 Years Ago

Thank you so much for your thoughtfu review. You have made many great points and regarding how he en.. read more
So the punishment continues even after he has served a sentence . No wonder he feels angry and violated. Where does rehabilitation fit in this picture? it clearly doesn't. I hate injustice. Good read, but left me cursing the internet.

Thank you Dara

Chris

Posted 6 Years Ago


Chris Shaw

6 Years Ago

So do I. So much for justice eh? You have served him well though Dari by writing this heartfelt poem.. read more
Dara

6 Years Ago

Again, many thanks!
Chris Shaw

6 Years Ago

You are welcome.
Don't they say truth is stranger than fiction.....an enjoyable read if ever there was...... N

Posted 6 Years Ago


Dara

6 Years Ago

That is an excellent way to put it! Your time and review mean so much. Thank you.
Neville

6 Years Ago

Hey.. no problem, no worries, my pleasure... Neville
It s a shame that once something like this happens, thee seems to be no shaking the stigma regardless of how you have changed or made amends. A great look at the difficulty of stereotype and how it is easier to believe what you see on the internet versus making your own decision and knowing all the facts. Great work!!!!

Posted 6 Years Ago


Dara

6 Years Ago

Your review is spot on! Thanks so much for taking the time to read and absorb my poem.
There's got to be more good in this world to dissipate the bad and evil. Your introspect here made for a riveting read, Dara.

Posted 6 Years Ago


amazing story told with compassion and talent as well wow!!

Posted 6 Years Ago


Dara

6 Years Ago

Thank you Marilyn. Sometimes it is important to see things from another persons eyes. Life can be so.. read more
A too familiar tale, I'm afraid. There's just so much unfairness in the world and too many people with cold hearts. Do they not know that we're all in this together and the product of the same creative hand?

Posted 6 Years Ago


Dara

6 Years Ago

Yes, it is so disheartening to see what a cold world this is becoming especially at out "own back do.. read more
An all too often tale. Sometimes we sit back and ignorethese stories, Thats what makes this hit home and thats what makes this one all the more special.
It's always a pleasure to read you.

Posted 6 Years Ago


Dara

6 Years Ago

Hello Bill, good to hear from you again! Yes, these things always seem to happen to someone else unt.. read more
Unfortunately there are a number of stories akin to your poetically poignant piece! Theses manipulated miscarriages of justice only highlight the enormity of the task for truth to break and bind a flawed system.

But … at the end of the day …. the truth will set them free! Well written and good share! :-)

Posted 6 Years Ago


Dara

6 Years Ago

Well said! Thank you for adding your words of wisdom to a subject that has effected me deeply on a p.. read more

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Added on December 12, 2017
Last Updated on April 10, 2018

Author

Dara
Dara

NC



About
I am a retired teacher who has just recently discovered the joy of writing poetry. Formerly known as Passion Flower, I decided to publish using my own name. My poetry is simple and from the heart whi.. more..

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