Berliners is a poem that originated from a conversation in Berlin. After several visits to Berlin, and a recent work assignment there with the German Film Academy, John Simmons became fascinated by the role of the city in 20th century world history. From the First World War to the Weimar Republic; the rise of the Nazis leading to the next world war; followed by the Cold War, the separation of the city by a wall into east and west representing opposed ideologies; then eventually the destruction of the wall by the people and the reunification of Germany. Berlin was at the centre of the conflict and drama that shaped the modern world, and its history still resonates today. The poem tells the story of the 20th century through a tableau of vivid scenes brought to life by a diversity of poetic forms – all seen through the lens of the people and places of this one extraordinary city, Berlin.
