Breakfast, 1921, Fernand Leger,
courtesy Tess at The Mag. *click here*
Wiki says: "Léger's experiences in World War I had a significant effect on his work. Mobilized in August 1914 for service in the French Army, he spent two years at the front in Argonne. He produced many sketches of artillery pieces, airplanes, and fellow soldiers while in the trenches, and painted Soldier with a Pipe (1916) while on furlough. In September 1916 he almost died after a mustard gas attack by the German troops at Verdun. During a period of convalescence in Villepinte..."
The Big War
When the gas rolled in
I had nowhere I could hide
and it took me out.
Fucking mustard gas.
As I waited to go back
to the line I drew
your face and the pain
on it inverted, upside
down and in only
three primary shades
of gray but I need to kill
something, maybe with
the big guns in back
of us down the long lines, blow
the Boche all to hell.
September 9, 2012 9:30 AM
Dark, raw...well done...I like your unique and historical take...
ReplyDeleteYour poem is focused on a most horrible concept of war.... chemical poisoning. Certainly Leger was lucky to survive and be able to continue producing meaningful art. Thank you for sharing this reminder Christopher, of the need for seeking peaceful outcomes to all disagreements.
ReplyDeleteThank you for not only a pointed poem, but the education as well!
ReplyDeleteAt a loss
ReplyDeleteAre we disgruntled today
are we gasping
and wheezing at a loss
for breath
cursing and ruing the day
the gas took our
life away
but did not cause
our death
Chris McQueeney 9/9/12 10:03P.M.
I believe so...
ReplyDeleteBeautiful take. Loved it!
ReplyDeleteblacker than the white
Truth, like darkness hits home! Lovely words, touching piece.
ReplyDeleteThis indo does indeed put another slant on it, Chris. I imagine the world must have been full of these headless people around that time, and you illustrate perfectly.
ReplyDeleteChristopher, this is one of your finest ~~ ever!
ReplyDeleteA very different (and educational) slant on the Mag Christopher - thank you.
ReplyDeleteAnna :o]
so much pain and agony! Thanks for the history background.
ReplyDelete