Poems from a Prisoner
As a group, we try to run a regular prisoner writing session once a month. Writing to prisoners is a vital task for any group of anarchists. They are on the inside for us, so we must be on the outside for them, continuing our collective struggle and showing them solidarity – reminding them that they are not alone. Prison is a brutal place, and this is by design, so sending a letter or a postcard to a prisoner can mean a great deal.
One of our members has been exchanging letters for a little while with Ryan Roberts, currently serving 14 years in prison for helping to defend our right to protest during the Kill the Bill demonstrations a few years back. During these exchanges, Ryan chose to share two poems they had written whilst in prison. With their permission, we are sharing these poems here with you all. We have also produced a zine with these poems included – so keep an eye out at our future stalls to grab yourself one!
If you wish to write to Ryan, their details are here, with a big thanks to Bristol Anarchist Black Cross for keeping their prisoner list so up to date:
Ryan Roberts A5155EM
HMP Swaleside, Brabazon Rd, Eastchurch, Isle of Sheppey ME12 4AX
If you want to join us at a prisoner writing session, please do keep an eye on our social media for when we advertise them! Alternatively, you can always email us to get involved with us as a group and to help us organise such events!
Till every prison burns, and no one lives in a cage…
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Poem 1 – Community!
Community is an area we are all in.
Not just a label given by Councils or government within.
It’s about coming together, barriers no one can break.
Building common foundations. Identities no one can take.
Bonds are created through unity, resilience formed so strong, ensuring we combine to identify where we belong.
Accepting diversity allows a common ground.
Age, gender, religion, no one will beat us down.
Becoming one allowing care and consideration, in facing trials and tribulations, bringing everyone elation.
Life experiences share, give guidance and direction.
Not able to be bought or sold, only open to perception.
Our community is our belief a future we all want.
Working with a purpose to bring us together.
That’s our community no one can beat.
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Poem 2 – Without Prejudice
Do not condemn me for all that I do.
Fundamentally, I am the same as you.
Do not intrude upon my thoughts.
Or in the trap of prejudice you will be caught.
In every life mistakes occur.
In that I’m just like him or her.
I’m paying the price for what I have done.
Once I’m out let it be gone.
Don’t hound me forever for one misdeed.
Allow me truly to be free.
Burn me not with the prison brand.
Let me go and simply shake my hand.
I am not just the things I have done.
Like you I am a mother’s son.
All I want is a chance to be free.
You have no idea how much that means to me.
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