The Echoing Oracle Answers (1975)

(inspired by a graduate seminar in German Baroque poetry)

Oh tell us, mighty oracle of all!

-- All! All!

What think you of our despoiled earth?

-- Dearth! Dearth!

What shall be the final fate of all?

-- Fall! Fall!

What is your attitude towards men from earth?

-- Mirth! Mirth!

What of their many paths to God?

-- Odd! Odd!

Even if they be orthodox?

-- Ox! Ox!

And the politicians of our nation?

-- Shun! Shun!

Does nobility of man still sanctify?

-- Fie! Fie!

What then are man's ideals?

-- Deals! Deals!

Have we lost anything but our innocence?

-- Sense! Sense!

Is this not our finest hour?

-- Sour! Sour!

Think you not, utopia is near?

-- Sneer! Sneer!

Shall we go to war to create peace as welcome interlude?

-- Lewd! Lewd!

Who then among all mortals has a chance?

-- Ants! Ants!

Dick Hacken