BATTLE HYMN OF THE REPUBLIC, 1860–2004

Let us cross over the river and rest
under the shade of the trees. Melisma

of wind carries cannon fire over hills
into the lush valley. Bridges won’t last

heavy horses. The river must be swum.
We are in The Wilderness, fighting still.

That side of the tracks is theirs, for now. Gates
close but can be jumped. Accounts stay open

for settling. Metal drift of wind carries
fire of MAC-10s and Uzis over hills

into rich zips. Let’s cross over the tracks
and kick back on their beaches with their whores.