THE DECLARATION OF BEEF

by Daniel Pietroniro (1979)
Used by permission.

Yonder in green pasture's haze
   echo sounds where cattle graze
And muffled bells of brass and bronze
   salutate the ancient dawns

And through black storms where fierce winds wail
   upon the mount of truth prevail
For all mankind, both young and old
   the wisest words ‘twere ever told:

"Chew all that lay upon thy plate
   do not pause, nor hesitate...
And do not question, neither moan
   just pay heed to flesh and bone

And never cease relentless jaw
   but bear in mind the greatest law...
Be it gristle, chuck or prime
   chew whatever beef you find

For beef is good! today...tomorrow...
   so chew ye well the joy and sorrow...
For wisdom lives where teeth hath chewed
   the noble beast which once hath mooed.

©1979 Daniel Pietroniro |  ©2001–2009 Spiral Dream, LLC  All rights reserved

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