KNOWLT HOHEIMER

I was the first fruits of the battle of Missionary
Ridge.
When I felt the bullet enter my heart
I wished I had staid at home and gone to jail
For stealing the hogs of Curl Trenary,
Instead of running away and joining the army.
Rather a thousand times the county jail
Than to lie under this marble figure with wings,
And this granite pedestal
Bearing the words, "Pro Patria."
What do they mean, anyway?

Questions for Knowlt Hoheimer:

1. Give her side of the story.
2. Give his side of the story.
3. What do the words "Pro Patria" mean?

KNOWLT HOHEIMER

This poem was based on Edgar Lee Masters's uncle who fought in the Civil War.