Who Can Create Alone?

Most of us can fight in the heat of anger,If we must.
In the high blood of battle’s rage;
With the adrenaline of nearby buddies,
And the solidity of resupply,
Command, control;
Flag.
Home.
But who can fight alone?
In the cold stillness of night,
With empty stomach,
Torn uniform,
Broken weapons,
Broken will.
Who can fight, like that;
Alone?
Against the dark?
Against those forces that wait quietly for us
On the precipice of death?

Most of us can create in the warmth of light.
Beside the hearth
Of companionship;
The friendly comfort of collaboration,
Recognition.
Money.
But who can create alone?
In spite of the night of anonymity.
In spite of the cold stillness of poverty.
In spite of the gaping maw of the Exit Bag, waiting.
Who can create alone?

--- Tim Carter, 8 May 2011