Don't Touch Me

Bullets cascade around me, explosions echo, dirt flies into my face

But I’ve got him, my brother

My arms are clinging tight

I see beyond his bloody face, soldiers in grey camo

running toward me, shooting faceless as they come

But then their hands are on my back, pulling me away. “He’s already dead, soldier, let’s go!”

But I’m screaming, thrashing, “Don’t touch me!”

“It’s okay, I’ve got you, buddy,” one shouts into my ear.

They pry me away.

I’m weeping. Like a baby.

“Let me go!”
They hold tight.

But my brother, don’t fear.

I swear we’ll meet again