flagging

let the flag bind you
with its wisped colour
to this land
this square of sod
you stand on

let it blind you
with its cloth
of illusion
as you step out
on nothing but air

let it brand you
as an arrant fool
unquestioning
your country
right or wrong

march into oblivion
stride away
off your pedestal
and as you fall
let the flag catch you

© BH, 2026

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Lemn Sissay posted an image of Banksy's 'Blind Patriotism' installation.

This was my immediate response.

Oh, how braggadocio clings to jingo!