Lying is an occupation,
Used by all who mean to rise;
Politicians owe their station,
But to well concerted lies.
These to lovers give assistance,
To ensnare the fair-one's heart;
And the virgin's best resistance
Yields to this commanding art.
Study this superior science,
Would you rise in Church or State;
Bid to Truth a bold defiance,
'Tis the practice of the great.
-- Laetitia Pilkington
For more about this poet, see:
Given that we are close to election time here in New Zealand, I thought this poem was appropriate.
Hmmm. Cynical realism for us, in poetry. I prefer neither -- Church nor State. Good post!
ReplyDeleteIndeed, a fun way to deal with a depressing subject - thanks, perfect during this time of electioneering.
ReplyDeleteVery appropriate Andrew, particularly with the current political goings-on
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