V is not for victory

A man split between the news of his dead family and the celebrations on VE day (WWII)

Fluttering rainbows like butterflies; such delight
of smiling infants and adults alike in intoxication.
Horns ablaze, cheering symphonic – such volume
expectant of a child’s weep, but no such fright.
But my brain jubilant in trial, heart wildly consumed.

Such day, I craved so longingly; such day I did fear
each waking moment – live burials less haunting.
A smile perfected; glazed icicles beaming light
around the giant hall of mirrors armouring – no tear
yet but the core burning; a fish caught but in vain fight

A man forced laughing, betraying his comrade’s
final breath – alas no choice with the masses.
Pools created underneath my eyes, ready; even Niagara
hath no fury. Not today though, my heart says,
The day is for celebration – hers, his and every minor