Albert Einstein 73 - A Year Of Turmoil -1933 Poem by Geeta Radhakrishna Menon

After Dr. Einstein's trip to America with Elsa,
That extended for almost four months,
From December 1932 to March 1933,
On their return journey to Europe,
They were forced to take a decision
Not to go back to their native country,
As Dr. Einstein's life was under threat.

The Nazis had come into power in Germany.
Einstein's friends and fans warned him
Against returning back to Germany.
The Nazis were after him, to kill him.
They made false charges and propaganda,
Against both his scientific, pacifistic work
And banned his books in Germany!

When Einstein and Elsa reached Europe,
They decided to take refuge in Belgium.
Under the scary circumstances in Berlin,
It was the safest place for them.
They were guarded by Belgian Government
And protected by the Royal couple,
Queen Elisabeth and her husband.

Dr. Einstein with his wife Elsa,
Settled in a temporary home in Coq sur Mer,
A peaceful village, surrounded by nature's beauty.
Their step daughters, Ilse and Margot joined them.
Later, Einstein's secretary, Helen Dukas
And Walther Mayer too, escaped Germany for good.
They joined the Einstein family in Belgium.

In July 1933, Einstein's house, his boat and
His bank accounts were confiscated by the Nazis.
He was the most targeted man,
They were against his liberal political views as well.
When Dr. Einstein heard that a price of 20,000 marks was
Put on his head, in his usual jovial way, he remarked
That he was surprised that he was worth that much.

While in Germany, Einstein's step daughter, Ilse,
Along with her husband Rudolf Kayser,
Tried to save many things from their homes,
Both in Berlin and Caputh.
The French Ambassador helped them get Einstein's
Library of his research papers in a sealed diplomatic pouch.
His piano and some favourite furniture too, were retrieved.

Before leaving Europe, Einstein spent a month in England.
His final speech at Royal Albert Hall, London was received
With tremendous appreciation and thundering applause.
The British loved him and valued him. ‘New Statesman'
In their article, praised him as a "symbol of the brave and
Generous outcast, but pure in heart and cheerful in spirit."

A Biographical Poem