Monday, January 03, 2011

Hitler's Books

Pencil in hand, he scans the page

For something he can use,

Underlining a passage here, a phrase there,

Inserting exclamations or question marks,

Plundering ideas to fit his mission.


Each day at breakfast, the Fuhrer reprises

Last night’s reading at tedious length

To all at his table, recalling complete passages

From various books, discussing the topics

To fix them in his own mind.


1925.He opens his sketchbook

And draws a detailed stage set for the first act

Of Julius Caesar, with ominous facades

For the Forum where the hero will die.

We will meet again at Philippi,

He warns opponents with a glower.

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