The Peaceful Transfer of Power

Forgotten ways and things long since disposed, As paupered kings exiled and deposed, Oh yes, all things in time become replaced, Old monuments by conquering tribes defaced, And glittering spoils that to the victors go, Have not a mind to judge a friend from foe, Oh, timeless dance that history knows so well, Of empires borne in with the rising swell, Whose sandy castles dampened by the sea, Feign everlasting strength but don't foresee, That as the sun does rise and smile upon, The glory of this transient Babylon, Its briny mortar leaves the sandy frame, As vapor it returns from whence it came.