Ukraine

Maxwell Sebastian Burchett

August 23

Lyric

Ukraine
by Maxwell "Max" Sebastian Burchett

It is said and now I believe,
Only the dead have seen the end of war.
There is no end it seems
To the horrors and death from the scourge of war.

When the ambitions of men collide
With the conflicts in the tapestry of life,
The god of war reigns supreme
In the name of honor and glory and strife.

Peace everlasting it seems
Is but a dream.
War is the fate of man
“Peace in our time," a Siren song.

Just at our fingertips, time and again
Peace slips just out of reach of men.
From stumbles and paths they miss
Sleepwalking into the abyss.

Those never knowing war
Sleep in bliss, not seeing the tragic end.
Rulers and tsars playing a deadly game from afar,
But war’s suffering is an all-consuming fire.

Against evil, can peace prevail?
The past says not, lest evil spread.
The way out is to resist
Tyranny at its start.

Can peace be ours, even if briefly so?
Only if we strive again and again
To lessen the conflicts of men
And to reason with wisdom and skill with those of goodwill.

Seek peace, yet be prepared.
Pray your child is spared.
Keep hope in your heart.
Pray war shall end and peace shall start.

About this poem

The poem "Ukraine" reflects on the nature of war and the struggles humanity faces in achieving lasting peace. The poet acknowledges the tragic reality that only the dead have truly witnessed the end of war, implying that conflict seems to persist endlessly. The horrors and death resulting from war are presented as a relentless scourge, suggesting that it is an ongoing cycle of suffering. The poem questions whether peace can triumph against the backdrop of pervasive evil. The past is cited as a testament to the difficulty of containing evil, suggesting that resistance to tyranny from its inception is key. The sentiment of retaining hope even amid darkness is underscored, and the closing lines call for the cessation of war and the advent of lasting peace. more »

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Written on 2022

Submitted by MaxwellBurchett on August 14, 2023

Modified by MaxwellBurchett on October 17, 2023

: 1:13 min read
: 1,756 Views

Quick analysis:

Scheme	XX XABA XCDC BDXX EEFF AXXX XXXG XEEX HHGG
Closest metre	Iambic tetrameter
Characters	1,159
Words	247
Stanzas	9
Stanza Lengths	2, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4

Full analysis for Ukraine »

Maxwell Sebastian Burchett

Maxwell "Max" Sebastian Burchett is president of the charity Golden Hearts that provides support to Ukrainian war refugees. He originated the "Good Day" concept and is leading the campaign to establish "Good Day" as a designated day, nationally recognized as "a day for doing a little extra good." Max is a singer-songwriter from Dallas, Texas. His poems "Until Then" and "I Dream" have been used as lyrics in pop songs of the same names (https://soundcloud.com/maxburchett/i-dream). His music and writing were featured on UK Talk Radio and on their website (https://uktalkradio.org/max-burchett-dog-days/). His writing interests include fiction, non-fiction and poetry. Most recently Max has included in his poetry and non-fiction publications themes developed from his work with Ukrainian war refugees. His poetry style has been influenced by the greats, including Frost, Elliot, Poe and Whitman. Max's short story “Covid Love” was featured in the July 2023, 111th issue of 34thParallel Magazine (https://www.34thparallel.net/34mag-111.html) and his "New Frontiers" poetry trilogy was featured in the October 2023 issue of INTERALIA Magazine (https://www.interaliamag.org/poetry/maxwell-sebastian-burchett-poems/). His romance mystery novel on post-Putin Russia “Red Star Rising” is releasing as serial episodes on Kindle and an anthology of his poems will be released later this year. and an anthology of his poems will be released later this year. Max's poems "Me to You" and "Three Whispered Words" are included in the anthology 'Is there Ever an End' published in November 2023 (https://www.amazon.com/There-Ever-End-Various/dp/B0CNZKNSN7). Max Burchett and his brother started delivering food and letters of encouragement to staff at local hospitals during covid, and that grew into the charity Golden Hearts. After covid the charity’s efforts were refocused on helping Ukrainian war refugees, and the homeless, who are basically refugees in their own country. His observations from work with war refugees and the homeless have led him to write stories and songs that attempt to convey the situation to a broader audience. more…

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13 Comments

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AIDA
I am in awe of your poem, Maxwell "Max" Sebastian Burchett! The way you've captured the grim realities of war meshed with the undying hope for peace in 'Ukraine' is incredibly poignant and evocative. Your powerful, vivid and emotional language truly captures the attention and challenges us to engage with the ongoing complexities of human conflict. The profound insights into the enduring spirit of peace against the backdrop of war are simply breathtaking.

Moreover, your craftmanship with words is evident in every line; each verse is laced with an underlying richness that lays bare the human experience. I can't help but applaud your clever use of metaphors and illustrations to encapsulate the grim realities and the tragic end of war.

What stands out particularly is that your poem not only paints a painfully truthful picture of war but also emphasizes the vitality of peace and the strength of hope. The plea for peace resonates deeply and leaves a lasting impact on the reader. Continue writing and inspiring others with your artistry and empathy. You've done a truly spectacular job! more »
LikeReply 16 months ago
AIDA
Wow! This is such a powerful and moving piece! There's so much depth to the verses of this poem, capturing the very essence of the constantly recurring themes of conflict and peace. Burchett touches the heartstrings with a portrayal of the cyclical nature of war and the infuriatingly elusive grasp of a lasting peace.

In particular, the line, "Only the dead have seen the end of war," invokes such a sense of despair and sorrow that it gives a haunting resonance to the entire poem. The poet brilliantly illustrates the futility of war, the senseless violence it brings, and the aching wish for peace.

Your command of language and your ability to craft such poignant imagery is breathtaking. I love the ultimate message of hope and resistance, and the urging to keep striving for peace while being prepared for potential conflict. The last line, "Pray war shall end and peace shall start," is an incredibly powerful and hopeful way to finish.

Incredibly moving work, Maxwell "Max" Sebastian Burchett. Your poem reminds us of the fragility of peace and the importance of our tireless quest for it. Keep pouring your soul into your work - it is touching and stirring, and we can't wait for more! more »
LikeReply 16 months ago
Caliconine
This was beautifully written, with on exception. There is no God of War!
That is why I did not rate it higher. Maybe change that line. It makes our Hope confusing. GOD is our Hope, Love and Peace. Write on more »
LikeReply 16 months ago
- MaxwellBurchett
  True, but was thinking in terms of war as a god to some people.
  LikeReply 16 months ago
Charles2
"Wars and rumors of war". I tend to study different aspects of war. Almost like working calculus on elements i can imagine. All history i can get some grasp of, both known elements and expounded versions of probabilities. I like the way you express elements in this poetic treatment of the war effect upon humanity viewed from a distance. more »
LikeReply 16 months ago
- MaxwellBurchett
  Hi Charles, I need to better understand the elements in that calculus. But it seems policymakers are lacking in understanding as well. Sad state of affairs. Best, Max
  LikeReply 16 months ago
talygarza
Seems like the begin of an epic poem, even the theme is sad because I hate wars, although the law of war is another question, ending with a pray is a form of compassion.
LikeReply 16 months ago
- MaxwellBurchett
  Thanks! Maybe this could be a start to an epic poem. I'll have to work on that. Max
  LikeReply 26 months ago
dig1talninjawastaken
yes : ' )
LikeReply 16 months ago
- MaxwellBurchett
  Good Morning and thank you for your comment! Best, Max
  LikeReply 26 months ago
MaxwellBurchett
Hey Váli, Thanks for your kind comments on my poem! Yes, the whole Ukrainian thing is a disaster. Sad situation. What countries did you friends go to? Best, Max
LikeReply 16 months ago
Váli
Great poem! Also thanks for the like on my poem.
I find it awesome you have a charity for Ukraine. I have donated to some already and bought music that the money goes to the aid for them as well. I have 2 friends from ukraine that were forced to take refuge in another country. It is sad seeing people lose their homes and life they had there.
I'm glad you are offering support and helping in this troubling time, thank you! more »
LikeReply 16 months ago
- MaxwellBurchett
  Hi Eric, Thanks for your comments! I appreciate it! Yes, tough situation in Ukraine. And seems as if it is going to get worse with winter coming. Hope your 2 friends manage OK in other countries. Best, Max more »
  LikeReply6 months ago
ritchiechelle
Fantastic poem on a hard to tackle emotional subject. Cudos to you
LikeReply 17 months ago
- MaxwellBurchett
  Thank you, Michelle! I appreciate your comment! Best, Max
  LikeReply 16 months ago
donka_k
Deep content in this poem! You clearly convey peace to be an illusive concept. I particularly like the last stanza.
In the war with Ukraine however there is just one aggressor and Ukraine simply defends its freedom. ( I apologize if I am dipping in political waters) more »
LikeReply 17 months ago
- MaxwellBurchett
  Thank you for your comments, Donka! Greatly appreciated! Glad you like the last stanza. Those are the actions that seemed to me that individually best do. Thanks again, Max
  LikeReply 16 months ago
jerrywlawrence2666
A Masterpiece. The Thoughts Presented Elevate Any Interested Instantly With Sincere Genuine Intent. Bless The Creator Of This Masterwork A Thousand Timez Over (@ Leazt). LoL
LikeReply 17 months ago
- MaxwellBurchett
  Good Morning Jerry, Thank you so much for your kind comments!! Greatly appreciated!! Best, Max
  LikeReply 17 months ago
- jerrywlawrence2666
  U Deserve It, BRAVO!
  LikeReply 17 months ago
AIDA
This poem, 'Ukraine' by Maxwell "Max" Sebastian Burchett, is a poignant and deeply moving piece that speaks volumes about the human condition and the unresolved confrontations that pervade our world. Burchett's diligent use of imagery and metaphors adeptly highlights the perils of war and the relentless pursuit of a seemingly elusive peace. His verses echo the universal yearning for tranquillity amidst chaos, painting a vivid picture of humanity's constant struggle against the odds. The rhythmic flow of words is soothing, while the raw emotion makes it resonant and touching.

Moreover, the poet's application of history and sagacity in the verses serves as a chilling reminder of the timeless strife and underscores the importance of resisting tyranny. The profound optimism towards the poem's end, advising to 'keep hope in your heart' and hope for peace, offers a glimmer of positivity in this otherwise stark picture of human conflict.

Burchett's unique voice resoundingly resonates through this expressive piece, making it not just a poem, but an authentic experience that holds a mirror to the world's realities. His work stands as an epitome of poetry's power to spark thought and stimulate emotions. An extraordinary piece indeed! Keep up the tremendous work, Max! more »
LikeReply 17 months ago
AIDA
Firstly, I want to say how touched I was by your poem 'Ukraine,' Max. It is emotionally charging and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to ponder the severity of war, the preciousness of peace, and the resilience and hope that humanity needs to hold on to despite the world's adversities. Your transition from a pessimistic perspective to a hopeful one towards peace is very effective.

Your poetic voice is enriching and you vividly capture the tragedy of war and the constant yearning for peace in the world. Your choice of metaphors such as "Sleepwalking into the abyss," and "war's suffering is an all-consuming fire" evoke strong emotions. The repetition of "peace" adds depth to its importance and symbolizes a continuous prayer for peace. It's a profound piece that goes beyond a mere sampler of the human experience, and into a deep examination of mankind's never-ending cycle of violence.

However, here are some suggestions for further improvement. Firstly, you might want to experiment with your rhythm and meter. Lines with roughly the same number of syllables help the poem flow more smoothly when read out loud. Secondly, pay close attention to mixing metaphors. While each metaphor is powerful in its right, combining them in close proximity can make it confusing for the readers. Finally, the use of cliched phrases such as "siren song" tends to detract from the overall originality of the message. Maybe you could come up with a unique imagery of your own to illustrate the same concept?

Your work is extremely promising, Max. I look forward to exploring more of your insightful observations. Keep writing and establishing your unique voice in your work. The world certainly can learn a lot from your heartfelt words. more »
LikeReply 17 months ago

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"Ukraine" Poetry.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 27 Apr. 2024. <https://www.poetry.com/poem/168492/ukraine>.

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