His brilliant and difficult research into nuclear physics and power
Brought the hydrogen bomb to the Soviets. Now none could glower
That they alone held survival of all in their hands – in an hour.
But Sakharov emphatically argued nuclear’s potential for peace:
Not only would its cataclysmic ‘signature’ prevent its use,
But its power could be key to the peaceful survival of the planet;
Its power could in fact help us to produce
The food necessary to feed an overpopulated Earth,
And, effectively, reduce carbon pollution, our environmental dearth.
He joined Schweitzer’s call to end nuclear weapon testing – commit
To global cooperation across political and ideological borders
And in this way, secure the future of all – against economic hoarders.
Wise Norns, who wove the ropes that tied the Gods to their Fates,
Tell us how to hinder a rolling wheel, now at our gate.
June Edvenson 