62
Now after several days of vigilance
The people notice greater confidence
Exhibited by the marine patrols.
This frightens them. The occupation pulls
Their dignity to shreds, and though marines
Have not created devastating scenes,
This only makes them wonder when they will.
They do not have to wait much longer 'til
This happens. For young Fatima is on
An errand for her mother after dawn,
When morning supplications are complete.
Now Fatima is properly discreet.
Her teenage brother Qasim escorts her
To keep her safe from any villager
Who might pursue his sister's tender charms
And fondle her -- uncovering her arms,
But as they both approach the marketplace
The single men admire the virgin's face
And clamor loudly that the woman must
Accommodate their unrelenting lust.
