The Destruction of Dresden

On the night of 13/14 February 1945, shortly before the end of the Second World War, the historic centre of the city of Dresden was destroyed during an Allied bombing raid. British and American planes dropped incendiary bombs on the city, creating a firestorm which engulged the centre of the city. Thousands died; the exact figure is still a matter of dispute.

Anniversary of the Dresden Firestorm

This weekend thousands will gather in the city to take part in a silent commemoration of the destruction of the city – this being the 71st anniversary. They will be looking to the present and the future, to a world of peace, justice and reconciliation rather than conflict.

A Poem in Memory of Those who Died in Dresden

Twenty years ago, a young British girl took part in a concert in Cambridge to mark the 40th anniversary of the Dresden raid. This is the poem she wrote

Annihila

Devastation after devastation.
To be annihilated, conflagrated, liberated.
And then be still the wind that fans the flames.
Drop to lift the dust over the stones.
Powder ash, dust of their bones.
Annihilate this place called home.

Remember, then, in their shadow
If they are watching. Stars amongst the stars,
Singing to the rooftops lest they burn away.
Libera me. Blessed they.
Tears for the requiem.
Devastation after devastation.

The  writer was Megan Young. Her collected poems have been published in Wordsmith: The Gift of a Soul.