Villanelle - A Jewish Star

A Jewish Star A Jewish star is quite a cross to bear When antisemites frown and disapprove; Still, we Jews dance up that final stair.

That staircase leads to pastures rich and fair Though haters shoot their looks from wooden pews.

A Jewish star is quite a cross to bear.

I shall go up beyond their hostile stare, To places which breed peace at far remove.

Still, we Jews dance up that final stair.

And if they try to stop escape in air, I'll knock their bruising eyes, my life to prove; A Jewish star is quite a cross to bear.

Spinoza in the thorns, I still must dare To fight their endless hatred on the move ­ Still, we Jews dance up that spiral stair.

A Jewish star is quite a cross to bear; Still, we Jews dance up that spiral stair.

Carl Estrin