When the arms fair returns to London in September, Art the Arms Far will be back too. We are organising two weeks of art, music and poetry to expose the arms fair. We’d would love for you to visit the exhibition, attend an event, or volunteer to help us out, if you are able and willing.
We know that the arms trade, peace and conflict is an issue many f/Friends are passionate about, and some young f/Friends have been involved in the organisation of Art the Arms Fair.
Here is a poetic contribution from Robert Ilson of Hampstead Meeting.
A Tale Too Often Told
My dearest friend acquired a gun
I did not want to be outdone
And got one too. We both were proud
To stand out from the gunless crowd
And felt protected from assaults
Our lives seemed perfect, free from faults
Until one day we disagreed
Our voices rose. We felt a need
To flaunt our weapons, did not fear
The horror that was looming near.
His bullet failed ; mine hit its mark
My friend fell into Death’s long dark
I live yet cannot cease to grieve
My sadness will not ever leave
But is there no one else to blame ?
Yes ! There’s one more must bear the shame :
He who oblivious of their harms
Makes money out of selling arms
Robert Ilson
Dear Friends,