How can I not shed a tear?
How can others snipe and sneer?
This miserable existence of a human life
Born into famine, AIDS and strife

How the world must shed a tear
For these families in fatal fear
Knelt, crumbling dusty sand
Of once rich and fertile land

How the world must shed a tear
No fuel for man, death is near
Eyes droop towards the son
What is it that I’ve done wrong?

How can I remain here
Cherishing my favourite beer
Chasing all the city jobs?
Life’s default setting, join the snobs

Still, I remain here
I need to eject this chair
Unfold myself through earth and sea
I cannot let this thing be

What is it that pulls me there?
The Grapes of Wrath and Africa
Justice, compassion, humility
I can’t die saying sorry.

09/01/2002

Posted on 07/10/2002
Copyright © 2025 Phil P Robson