They counted up the crosses

And the rift was laid bare

A chasm of endless losses

For all that was right and fair.

 

For many it was victory

While others were wracked with grief

Any triumph was contradictory

Because of the bigotry unleashed.

 

Betrayed by the elected

The lies went unchecked

Minds were infected

Treachery replaced respect.

 

A misplaced patriotism

By such a tiny few

Had clearly led to racism

And Britain had lost its glue. 

 

It must have been hiding

Ashamed in the dark

But when politicians began dividing

Prejudice began to spark.

 

So now we must stand united

And speak up for diversity

Because this country is blighted

By the worst perversity.

 

Every faith and background

Is always welcome here

It’s crucial now we resound

And make our message clear.

 

Please don’t go and leave us

We’ll all conquer this hate

We know it is worse than grievous

Together we’ll make it abate.

 

Whichever way you voted

Wherever you marked your cross

Let’s unite and stay devoted

Because love dwarfs capital loss.

Copyright  © Sophie Harrington (2016)

 

More Sophie Harrington poetry: Slow Down