Men like us
trudge in mud under Russian fire
while callow others load the missiles.
[-]
Men like us,
those poor we hate
kneeling when the muezzin calls
[-]
On both sides of any rifle
there always were men like us.
[-]
They were: builders and rapists and crafters and papists
they were: porters and beggars and cashiers and farmers
they raised walls at the border to prevent themselves crossing over
they voted for those who promised them safety
[-]
And I can't put into words how tired I am, brother,
of those fucking men like us.
About the Creator
M.
Half-time writer, all time joker. M. Maponi specializes in speculative fiction, and speculates on the best way to get his shit together.
Author of "Reality and Contagion" and "Consultancy Blues"
Reader insights
Outstanding
Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!
Top insights
Compelling and original writing
Creative use of language & vocab
Easy to read and follow
Well-structured & engaging content
Eye opening
Niche topic & fresh perspectives
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
On-point and relevant
Writing reflected the title & theme
📢 Raise Your Voice Thread: 01/08/2026
Our “Raise Your Voice Threads” are hosted most alternating Thursdays at 12PM ET to offer creators more avenues to uncover exceptional stories on Vocal. As we are continuously searching for fresh creators and inspiring stories, this thread provides an opportunity to exchange and discuss the stories that have moved and motivated us on Vocal.
By Raise Your Voice by Vocal5 days ago in Resources
Comments (19)
Wow this is an incredible poem M! I love the line about the different people on both sides of the rifle. It is... I don't really have the words for it but it spoke deep to the core of my being. Simply in awe of what you were able to accomplish here
A concentrated poetic message that is entirely effective! I'm glad that I saw you featured as "Creators We're Loving" so I could catch this top story that I missed. Excellence!
Congrats on Top Story!🥳🥳🥳
Raw poem and so true. Well done
Amazing congratulations, can you read mine also?
This is amazing!! And captures so much of the unfortunate reality of the majority of men that join the military
This is brilliant, thought provoking and sincere. Congratulations M.!
Oh and congratulations for top story! Well deserved!
So raw and tiring to the bone! I feel your pain through the lines.
Congratulations!! Yes, you have said it all here. And we are all weary. 😔
Honest and raw. Congrats on top story!
This is honest and powerful. Well done!
Well said, you nailed it. Congratulations!
Oof! Straight to the heart with this one... I've been working on healing my relationship with the masculine and I have to say, this little piece is working wonders on that process. Thank you!
M, me too. Enough said.
Very raw and painful prose, great job
Congratulations on Top Story!
Your words are More insightful then it appears on paper (or on the screen) This hit home for any one forced to do the bidding of others we once trusted, or at the very least hoped would be better than the others. Huge congratulations
damn, hard hitting. congrats on the top story.