W I N N E R O F T H E J O S H U A W E I N Z W E I G P O E T R Y C O N T E S T, G R A D E 1 1
UNSTEADIEST1 ____________________________________________________________ by Jake Wu, Grade 11 Eons ago, over a land far away, The kingdom Emacira2 held the sway. The mightiest army in the world it owned Countless money to the allies it loaned.
New laws were issued, old ones were changed, Solely to make him no longer be hedged. Finance and education… he cared none. Yet is more powerful than anyone.
A realm of opulence but not tranquil— The revolutions were continual. At last, the monarchy was overthrown. People purged each single heir to the throne.
Then, he tore up each single agreement. Declared war to the countries in the east. Clearly, he had fallen into madness. Hence, he brought an end to the alliance.
Then, the new republic was formed ere long, Tyranny and oppression were all gone. Senate and magistrates shared the power. Elections were held to pick the leader.
But these misfortunes never come alone, A great plague befell this gloomy zone. Thousands were killed by a disease unknown. Throughout the country were the sounds of moans.
An eminent merchant called Daltum Prond3— Who was well known for the fortune he owned— With fame and wealth, he started a campaign. Ambition told him it’s time for his reign. He gave speeches to the old and the young. Made empty promises with his forked tongue. Through his presentations most euphemistic, People saw a future for the republic. Some were drawn by his “great charisma.” Others thought his fame an enigma. Lastly, he was elected to power. Thus starting a horrifying nightmare. Business and trading were what he should do, Meddled in politics that he’s doomed to rue. The knowledge of governing… he knew none. Yet is more confident than anyone.
People were all gathered near the palace. Protesting Daltum with renewed malice. The pestilence and riots, he solved none, Yet is much healthier than anyone. The restless revolt forced him to resign. His one-year-rule reached the end of the line. Soon he was banished from Emacira Which concluded that harrowing era. The once-richest man couldn’t tame this frontier. Forsooth, so much can happen in a year. Truth becomes stories when stories are true; Fiction, perchance, is the truth we pursue. _____________________________ 1. Unsteadiest – anagram (United States) 2. Emacira – anagram 3. Daltum Prond – anagram
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