Alas, That It's Lost

In a bygone America the First Amendment Was as sacred as a Biblical Commandment: "I disagree with what you say, But your right to say it, I'll defend to the death"-- Rang out the shibboleth. Disagreements and disputes Were all the rage; Discussion, debate, and discourse Took center-stage. From Lincoln-Douglas down through Kennedy-Nixon, Our leaders warred With eloquent words Instead of with swords... ...But now there's precious little freedom of speech, Political corretness is what academies preach. "Sexist," "Racist," "Fascist," they all screech; 'My way or the highway,' is what they teach. 'Twas a noble idea once, Was Freedom of speech: Today observed less in the act Than in the breach.