On Being Empire-Less

Jackie Joseph

Imperialists dwell
on ‘glories’ gained
by ancestors who weathered the waves,

like conquered lands
and cities built
upon the backs of slaves.

Empires collapsed
in on themselves
- being based
on a deadly game

of snatch and grab;
ravage; rape-
self sufficiency
never their aim.

Yet still my country
thinks it’s great
to honour crimes like these

by giving those
who give a lot
awards called OBEs.