Ex- British national poet Carol Ann Duffy has crafted an evocative verse depicting Donald Trump’s royal dinner as taking place amid war ruins.
The poet, serving as the prestigious role from 2009 to 2019, contrasts the “rocks and rubble” against the glittering diamonds of the “great and good” through her poignant lines.
Ceremonial Reception alongside State Banquet
Donald Trump and first lady Melania touched down in Windsor on Wednesday to be greeted by William and Kate, who escorted them to meet Charles and Camilla.
The monarch will hold a state banquet with over 100 attendees at Windsor Castle on Wednesday evening, where the two leaders are expected to deliver speeches.
Global Conflicts and Poetic Commentary
Amid the pomp, the poem titled STATE/BANQUET encourages readers to reflect on ongoing world conflicts, such as the war with Russia in addition to the situation in Palestine.
Israeli forces announced a “temporary” route for civilians escaping the urban area on Wednesday, while a major ground offensive began following intense bombardment.
Based on data, the majority of Gazan deaths in recent months have been civilians.
Duffy’s Verse: STATE/BANQUET
Its sparkle and gleams, The Grand Service,
among the rocks and debris,
laid out on concrete horseshoe table,
six crystal glasses per setting.
Requiring several staff weeks of work to polish —
silver coated in a thin layer of gold leaf —
even the concrete dust seems glamourised
with destruction adorned in the uplifting flags for freedom.
To start, fillet of Dover sole filled with salmon mousse,
placed on a bed of leeks in creamy sauce.
Poached Sandringham venison and fungi to follow,
then Key Lime Pie, and among the wines,
A fine Bordeaux, 1990.
Yum-yum. Hear the fanfare on the bombsite
while dignitaries navigate the scene,
and a famished child looks from a damaged wall.
The president is the first American head of state granted another royal welcome to the UK. Those in re-election usually invited for tea with the royal family instead.
Duffy, the inaugural female to hold the poet laureate role, previously expressed that she felt demoralisation due to global politics, citing what she called political upheavals.
