'Festive Dream' Poem by Antonis J. Kazantzoglou

Strangely and thoughtlessly I summon grief
as if immaculate joy will dawn.

Christmas and Easter approach for all
who may not even come this year.

Maybe the Magi will repose in Arabia
and the shepherds will be lost in the snow.

In the street the blind beggar
and in the cardboard box the dog freezing.

The magistrates pass through bands with light
and extend wishes to the afflicted.

The benevolent passes out envelopes
empty of compassion.

The children with their musical triangles are ashamed
and gape before the idiot-tube.

It's just struck twelve and all has ceased
silence fills the houses and the earth.

From afar a trembling song is heard
not in a stable but on a dry bridge.

It is the orphan breathing his last
as the 'Glory Halleluyah' rises in praise.

The lights faded and hymns resounded
laughter filling the earth.

The birth of the Sacrifice restored joy
in the impotent hearts of stone.