I never saw the sky that evening when Mars was bright. It was overcast and my thoughts were traveling on insignificant spreadsheet trajectories while I twilight-pedaled on my way home from work. Yet somewhere in the back of my mind, the recent news of the final bombings in Syria kept reminding me of how murder is renamed to war. I reached the final stretch on my way home where the bicycle path meanders close to water, and darkness deeper. I focused all my attention on the small bright cone of light where the path seemed clear. Maybe for a warrior, his quest is just a flashlight in the dark. No wonder Mars is bright; ashamed behind its veil of clouds.
crossing my path —
a fieldmouse in its jaws
the charcoal cat
Today Frank hosts haibun Monday at dVerse, with the topic being Mars. I thought of Mars as a harbinger of war and merged it with my bicycling home from work.
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March 2, 2020
Björn Rudbergs writings 
It’s amazing what one thinks about on cycle rides after a long day at work, as seen in your dual paths of thought, Björn. I like the comparison of your bicycle flashlight with Mars, and the cat with the field mouse in its jaws reminded me of our Luna – she often brings them home.
A powerful reflection, Bjorn! Reading your last line, I find it iconic that red-faced is associated with both anger and shame.
Love that haiku. Yes, I agree with Frank—Mars has a lot to be ashamed about.
a species that murders will die by its own hand
ouch scathing and on point, well said!
Take care, Bjorn. A black cat crossing your path is said to be bad luck. Indeed it was bad luck for the field mouse!
The quality of resonance in the text and haiku is clever. Bravo on a really nice take
Much❤love
I find your bicycle ride contemplations intriguing…and the shamefulness of war obvious here.
A very heartfelt Haibun. Very sad indeed. I love the twist in your Haiku. Wonderfully done Bjorn!
You had me at when /murder was renamed to war/. A powerful haibun, that packs both political and moral fists. A great way to start on the trail.
murder renamed to war. Mars ashamed. Powerful phrases, Bjorn!
Love the description in this piece and the poignant statement of the haiku.
isn’t anger often a mask for shame?