The Day The Show-Battles Ended Poem by Daniel Partlow

The most savage love of Rome, how did it end?
The show-battles of the coliseum - weren't just pretend.

How were the mortal fights between soldiers finally ceased?
Between foreigners, innocent slaves, and fierce beasts?

A country boy one day, heard a command that God made.
'Telemicus, Get up and go to Rome' and he piously obeyed.

As he wandered through the streets, a crowd went by
And he was swept to where the host did cry.

He saw the preparations for what would be an orgy of blood.
With disbelief, he ran to the ring as fast as he could.

“Are we not all men created in God’s image?
This bloodshed is just like giving false idols homage”

His 'Stop! Stop! ' became a comic side show for the crowd.
And finally, 'Run him through! ' some one shouted loud.

A soldier willingly obliged with his crimson blade
Invoking the name of his saviour, the boy's final plea was made.

And Telemicus cried his last, at the great Gladiator ring.
'Stop this thing! In the Name of Jesus Christ, Stop This Thing! '

...Convicted by conscience and the God to whom Telemicus did cling.
That was the final combat ever fought in Rome's beloved bloody ring.