Doggerel

by Jeff Harris
illustrations by Thomas Anderson




#1
When the heart lies down with the fat dogs
in the fat town,
Whimpering when your dinner’s late,
Let piety adjust your face
To the seasoning of his brand of grace,
And help yourself to your neighbor’s plate.



#2
When the heart lies down with the fat dogs
in the fat town,
Howling hosannas and drowling for dinner
Bow your head saintly and pray like a sinner:

“Oh life is so simple,
Life is so sweet.
Thanks for the kibbles, god,
How ‘bout some meat?”



#3
When the heart lies down with the fat dogs
in the fat town,
Saluting with due pro-piety
Your deity at First and Main,
Rejoice as you bless with humble derision
The gods at the corners of others’ religions.