Against The State

'People should not fear their government, governments should fear their people', misquote from movie 'V for Vendetta'

Against the state I’m nothing…just a voiceless entity

Against the state I don’t exist, as you will plainly see

Against the state I’m fragile; its power I don’t share

Against the state I’m futile; an insect way down there

Against the state I’m juxtaposed, polar poles apart

Against the state I’m counterposed; as worthless as my art

Against the state I tremble, as if it were a God

Against the state I cowered; beneath it’s mighty rod

Against the state I rallied, its corruption brought to bear

Against the state, I questioned those that rule up there

Against the state I demonstrated, asked of them the truth

Against the state I remonstrated when they withheld the proof

Then

Against the state I crumbled, in punishment for sin

Against the state I’m humbled in this prison that I’m in

Reviews

[Max Murphy]

When I read this I think of George Orwell's novel, Nineteen eighty-four. Has the same oppressed, fascist feel to it, really powerful. The repetition is used to wonderful effect, I'm not a huge fan of repetition in poems but this is one of the few I like, nay, love. The powerful effect of the rep is similar to 'Still I rise' by Maya Angelou. Top notch, expected nothing less.

[Alicante lullaby]

state kills indiviual and all we do is ring bells,rising slogans''we are one''when we kill ourselves.it is beautiful.

[Not A Writer]

Good write but I believe Congress is the enemy not the states. Good job in describing politics, so well in a poetic form. You describe it so well.

[Constance-Outspoken]

Awesome work! I love this piece.:) It's true, eloquently delivered, and going into my favorites, for certain. I wouldn't change a word of this, not at all.

[NomadKing1971]

straight up.....you didnt mince words....a chorus, like a song, might've given a bit more depth.....but i like it....i feel your anger, but it doesn't come through as hate, just angry, and helpless....as are we all....very nice....keep it up

[Vincent Esprit FMI]

The might of the state who can challenge it.......a just conscience can I believe...which your piece relates too....this impartilaity which is also implied is a shared hy Hannah Arendt...This piece reminds me of her writings, thanks Spence.

[Doreen]

I really like this. It flows so well and speaks so well of society and its fears. Nicely done and fun to read. :)