Writer:- Barbara Gurney, Gosnells Writers Circle
Western Australia
AFTER THE FILM
'I didn't know I could be so scared,' said the young woman on the screen.
In the after-quietness, I could only imagine:
Fear building
Courage struggling
As the Yellow Peril fly low
Repeating their premeditated attack
Taking away lives amid a blazing Darwin
Teapots and teacups rattling to breaking point
Books and pencils scattering
Desks tipping into rubble
Children terrified
Adults baffled
Soldiers puzzled
Seaman confused
The Post Office ‒ nothing left to send
In these moments where our heart trembles
Poignant stillness captures respect
From memories recorded for new generations
We inhale with gratitude
Beneath fragrant frangipani blooms