BEHOLD our solemn pantomime,
Our tears and slow unveiling
Of marble monuments.

          Forgive the uncomprehending play,
          The stage so clumsily set,
          The painted props
          Which replace the former scene.

Accept our floral wreaths
And simple grief;
Grant us this defense
Against the legend of your fate.

          Behold our artlessness
          And keep your fearful history locked
          In strickened silence,
          In shallow graves And frozen dreams.

The years of peace must justify
The dreams of we who live.