Beaten and abused,
he hangs helplessly
from the tallest tree in the forest,
one full of life, who watches
as lives come to a shrieking halt.

Extending its branches
it clenches the red stained rope
around the neck of the next victim.

Dirty children gather, cheer, and smile
while they attack
Together they form a circle of life
surrounding a blood drenched body

Picking up the heavy stick
a young boy swings it angrily.
He hopes he can crack a few bones,
as flying blood lands on the trunk of the queasy observer

When night approaches,
the onslaught fades.
Darkness begins to set in,
and the tree gives thanks that it won’t have to view
harsh evil until morning.