Poetry pulses through the veins of American heritage, shaping our nation’s conscience and collective voice. In the 19th century, Walt Whitman recognized that both poetry and democracy derive their power from unifying disparate voices into a harmonious whole. His words in “I Hear America Singing” still resonate, reminding us that each citizen’s song enriches the greater chorus.
Throughout history, poetry has served as a mirror, reflecting the triumphs and trials of our democratic journey. It challenges, illuminates, and inspires—an ever-evolving force in shaping conversations that matter.
The Fulcrum is proud to present an original poem by Michael Varga, author of “Under Chad’s Spell” and a former Foreign Service officer who has served in Dubai, Damascus, Casablanca, and Toronto.
“The Sour Grapes of a Dying Democracy” is a meditation on the seductive allure of power and the bitter reckoning it brings. Varga’s metaphor—a vineyard once abundant, now poisoned by corruption—calls for renewal. As democracy teeters, we must confront the consequences of compromised leadership and sow new seeds for future generations. The harvest may take generations, but only through vigilance and truth can we restore the legacy entrusted to us.
Read. ….Reflect….. Engage…..and Enjoy.
A Poem by Michael Varga
The Sour Grapes of a Dying Democracy
At the moment of veraison*
We don’t yet know how sour
Is the fruit. A far Trumped tower
Makes the grapes appear appetizing.
They turn crimson, then black.
Now we know the harvest
Will be abnormal, the harshest.
Uprooting vines is our task:
We must expunge the downcast.
About the prize, the crew chief lies.
He charges the pickers to pick.
But when the vintage ferments
We taste how bitter, how sick.
All of the vines are corrupt.
We have to start over, a new
Planting of the sacred vineyard
Handed down from beloved ancestors
Who measured risks of hiring
Overseers who deceive us, miring.
It will take eons for the next harvest.
But our sons, daughters will reap best
Long after we hover above the mist,
Gauging the robust bequest we left.
*veraison refers to the period when grapes begin to ripen, marking the transition from growth to maturation. This stage is characterized by changes in color.
David Nevins is co-publisher of The Fulcrum and co-founder and board chairman of the Bridge Alliance Education Fund.
