Here in this land no one gets ridicule <br />but he who tells the truth. He then must stand <br />defenseless and attract some smirking, cool <br />disdain. Nothing dishonors in this land. <br /> <br />Here in this land a person's wickedness, <br />which elsewhere would lead straight to prison's door, <br />mints him pure gold, brings glory and success, <br />and garners honor for him evermore. <br /> <br />Here in this land a gauntlet you must run <br />of petty thieves with deep contempt for you, <br />who wish to steal your purse and, when it's done, <br />will try to win, besides, your handshake too. <br /> <br />Here in this land you never will find rest <br />when fleeing from contaminated schemes, <br />for to your house the post comes like the pest <br />and mercilessly kills your pleasant dreams. <br /> <br />Here in this land you strike an idle blow <br />if you attempt to hit this wily band, <br />and every knave will grin and let you know <br />you're his compatriot here in this land.<br /><br />Karl Kraus<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/here-in-this-land/
