A Lullaby for the Twins
By Tatiana Pahlen

Fear thrives on the woman's face
Her vigilant twins cry in their beds;
The boy clenches onto her sleeve
With eyes conveying a beastly fright.

"Mommy, mommy," he tightens his grip,
"Will the terrorists get Susie and me?"

With anguish on her contoured face
The woman snatches her precious tots;
She puts to rest their sandy heads
Onto her heavily inhaling breast.

"No, my angels! The monsters won't get you tonight.
They have taken your father, the soul of my heart."

Tears are frozen in her weary eyes,
she combs and braids Susie's hair;
Her fingers tremble as she strains to sing;
Her voice is cracking with a sudden cry.

"No, my darlings,
The monsters won't get you tonight
They have taken your father — soul of my heart.
He won't come home
To kiss you goodnight
We ought to learn how
To endure this blow – right?
I'm here for you, I will guard all night.
Good night, my precious, sleep with the angels tight.
As you grow,
You will wear his pride,
Your daddy died a hero,
He is a valiant Knight!"


September 22, 2001

Copyright © 2001 Tatianyc. All Rights Reserved.