Devonslope Poem by Don Pearson

(In memory of and acknowledgement to Pastor Martin Niemöller)

First they installed CCTV in Teignmouth,
To deter vandals and to catch litter louts
And people whose car tax was a day overdue.
I applauded, scoffing at Tony Blair’s dream
Becoming Eric Blair’s nightmare.
What could the law-abiding have to fear?

When they dispersed groups of two or more
Who might be about to cause trouble,
I was enthusiastic,
Being no longer young.

When they came for the addicts, alcoholics and “undesirables”,
I did not speak out,
Because I had left that life behind.

When they came for the sick, the so-called incurables,
I muttered something to myself
But I was not mad enough to receive that treatment.

When they came for the Rotarians and Round-tablers,
I held my peace;
Perhaps uncharitably.

When they came for the Councillors,
I remained silent;
I despised local politics.

Niemöller’s final stanza continues to apply.

31st August 2008