The European Dilemma

a poem by Jan Oskar Hansen

Robbed of their homeland, living
In tiny enclaves, the Palestinians
Suffer the aftermath of the plague
That had its nascent in the heart of
Europe.

What happened was so awesome,
That we hesitate to criticise, turn
A blind eye when we see that They
Are not better, more human than
The ghost of our past.

The memory of the unspoken we
Are trying to forget, knowing that
Under a thin layer of enlightenment
Lurks an ancient hate against
The chosen people.

If you love your brother tell him
The truth and fear not being called
Name when you know that you are
Not what they say; if your heart is
Pure and conscience’s clear.