What is war?

The child asks,

Eyes wide and bright,

Looking up at me

For I know only peace.

Tell me, please, what is war,

For I do not know of it.

Tell me of a world

Without clean air or water,

For I know only abundance and plenty.

Tell me what oppression is,

For I know only freedom.

Tell me of sickness

Tell me of slavery

Tell me of the horrors of old.

What is war?

He asks,

Eyes alight,

Glowing in the gathering light,

For I know only peace.