Bobbie Troy’s most recent poem to appear here was “She: In Desolation” (October 2017)

The Streets of London Cried Too
(Era: World War II, Bombing of London)
By Bobbie Troy

the train platforms were covered
with children
as far as the eye could see
all with name labels on clothing
and luggage
all going to the foreign land
of the English countryside

little hands clutching mothers
little tears staining coats
little eyes imploring parents

while parents tried not to cry
saying it’s for the best
you will have fun in the country
and we want you to be safe

and the streets of London
cried too
they missed the laughter
of the children
the little feet running to catch up
with older siblings
the whir of bicycle races
the jump rope, ball playing,
and other street games
the city was quiet

the streets of London cried too