Dirty Science Poem by Tamara Beryl Latham

They gather at the folding table,
like a murder of ravens
sitting on a rocky ledge,
or evil gatekeepers of extermination,
cawing out orders of extinction.

Dressed in white, she stands before them.
They eye her with disdain,
collectively trumpeting: 'Who are you? '
'Do you actually believe you are worthy? '

During a segment of her life there were several in authority
who took credit for her work, but no credit was given to her.

'We are the ones who hold the power for recognition.'
'You deserve nothing and that is exactly what you will receive.'

Although endless years of toil accomplished much,
everything was stolen from her.

Yet, she persisted, tearless,
defiantly knowing that justice would strike
at the midnight hour
against those who practice dirty science