1865-

The statues once seemed reasonable: a sop
To those embittered, maybe even balm
To our hurt nation. But they didn't stop
The hatred. No, the papered-over calm
Was just convenient. We allowed their flag,
Pretended it was heritage and pride;
We named a fucking base for Braxton Bragg
Like it was no big deal--his was an equal side,
Valiant in defeat, but not a shame.
But it was always lies. We always knew.
It was just easier to play the game
For some of us. And now the debt is due
That others of us have been paying double.
Tear them all down. It is the lesser trouble.