Thus Spoke Hybris
Aesop, Fables 533 (from Babrius 70) (trans. Gibbs) (Greek fable C6th B.C.) :
"The gods were getting married. One after another, they all got hitched, until finally it
was time for Polemos (War) to draw his lot, the last of the bachelors. Hybris (Reckless
Pride) became his wife, since she was the only one left without a husband. They say
Polemos loved Hybris with such abandon that he still follows her everywhere she goes. So
do not ever allow Hybris to come upon the nations or cities of mankind, smiling fondly at
the crowds, because Polemos (War) will be coming right behind her."
You are my enemy! I hate your guts!
Why, you ask? My government said I should.
"For what reasons for your loathing me?" What's
the justification? - The common good!
"Should I reciprocate?" Doesn't matter!
My government said that you are a threat.
"Your leaders are as 'mad as a hatter'
and shouldn't attempt folly they'll regret."
Preemptive measures are in store for you
and there's nothing -Nada! to prevent it.
"Arrogance has a price, this is our view.
And you're overbearing prides and conceit
will cost your country misery and dead.
This, foe, is what my government has said."
Copyright © Albert Ahearn | Year Posted 2009
Post Comments
Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.
Please
Login
to post a comment