Pontius Pilate
by Albert Watson

'I've tried this prisoner and don't agree
Your judgement's wrong, I'll set him free.
It is a custom at this special feast
To see one jailed, let out, released.'

'You choose Barabbas, that terrorist,
That murderous insurrectionist.
Outraged am I with your demands,
Look! See this bowl, I wash my hands.'

'Enough! I am so tired of you.
'Behold the Man,' this humble Jew.
You force my hand, to crucify,
Nail innocence, on a cross to die.'

'What I have written I have written,
Atop the cross, of this one smitten.
Don't plead with me, I just refuse,
To change those words, King of the Jews.'


Please contact Albert Watson at "albwat@talktalk.net" to request permission to use this poem.