El Once

How can I recreate for you
a scene you have never witnessed?
For words cannot do justice
to electricity in the air,
unresolved pain,
crushed resistance,
oppression destroying
all faith and hope.

How can I describe to you
unfamiliar scents in the air?
For words cannot portray
the scent of urine on walls,
sweat from fear,
smoke from a gun.
lemon and salt to quell
gas bringing tears.

How can I make you understand
a pain so deep it suffocates?
For words cannot depict
marks on the body,
the murder of a loved one,
exile from home,
dark rooms keeping out
all rays of hope.

How can I make you feel
a guilt which brings you to your knees?
For words cannot erase
a burning flag,
spittle on your feet,
looks of suspicion,
graffiti on walls
saying: Yanquis Go Home.