Willy Brandt

A quarter of a century ago I spent time in Munich studying German and during my time there I was fortunate to see Willy Brandt speak on two occasions.  The first was in a smoky beer hall where mugs were raised in cheers to him.  The second was in Marienplatz where he spoke of the need for tolerance.

Here’s a poem I wrote about the second occasion:

Willy Brandt

With what force were words delivered
and with what fervor brought our hands to clap.

A man standing with dignity
echoing out
into the early evening truths.