The Bell Tolls (hemingway)

Rebels had brought him in
Forest camp, Spain.
Living like gypsies.
Keeping watch for forces.
He was an explosives man. *Nick was.
American adventurer. Mercenary.
Single capable.
Old Scout* saw him as an asset.
Hardened for the bush
And hikes fully packed.
Old den Mother Magda* saw him
As a liability.
Consuela was very young and beautiful.
Made eyes just a bit.
Meals together, chats and insights
Closer came the faces, kissing
Groping…and you know how
Hemingway usually took it.

News of advancing enemy
Big gunnery.
Rebels had to scurry
Wiring the bridge.
One dispassionate bear
Ambled through their workspace.
Checked out a food pack
Duly strapped shut.
Departed. Silent

Hour of decision
Who would be shot?
Knocked off the bridge.
How many vehicles, guns?
And what about the Romance?
And the team spirit
Among disparate idealist/fighters?

Not gonna spoil.
Not gonna tell.
Har, har.


* cannot remember actual names of characters. These will do.