we weigh our words

we weigh our words and mete them out with care
the message that we send puts us in dutch
but still and all we're seeing out the year

the signal will be sent with time to spare
to those who will remain beyond our clutch
we weigh our words and mete them out with care

let all the foolish stand about and stare
we find we've used the standard aging crutch
but still and all we're seeing out the year

the ones who worry have never been rare
but we have never thought we would do such
we weigh our words and mete them out with care

not one of us who could be thought a player
nobody claims that we've done very much
but still and all we're seeing out the year

crowds laugh and gather in each village square
not one of whom will truly stay in touch
we weigh our words and mete them out with care
but still and all we're seeing out the year

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

between the storms

raw day in december absence of light
a moment for thought then to bend each back
to make this journey's not a case of right

the change we hope for is both late and slight
a breeze desired arrives on the wrong tack
raw day in december absence of light

we take the winter as a sort of blight
glad we're not huddled in a tiny shack
to make this journey's not a case of right

things seem much worse when days are bright
and underfoot each blade of grass will crack
raw day in december absence of light

we know these powers far greater than our might
not one of us has got the force or knack
to make this journey's not a case of right

indifferent now between the day and night
the time is warmest when the sky's deep black
raw day in december absence of light
to make this journey's not a case of right

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

villanelle for a damp xmas

we do not think to beat upon the drum
announcing the arrival of the day
the needful things are brandy and dark rum

we add the year up and note that the sum
does not account for all lost on the way
we do not think to beat upon the drum

there's silence now we do not hear the hum
of traffic neither see the solar ray
the needful things are brandy and dark rum

each longs for taste of sweetest peach or plum
or sight of sunset deep in bluefields bay
we do not think to beat upon the drum

upon the instruments some beat or strum
and what the meaning is others will say
the needful things are brandy and dark rum

together we face all the facts that come
hurtling upon us the whole thing's just a play
we do not think to beat upon the drum
the needful things are brandy and dark rum

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

a late discovery

our proper kingdom's in another place
of roots and memories we're not bereft
and now too swift and hurried is the race

the world we have's no longer filled with grace
past is from present by a great sword cleft
our proper kingdom's in another place

we find we're going at too great a pace
our hearts are certain that the action's deft
and now too swift and hurried is the race

none goes before to bear the gilded mace
an object of great value and great heft
our proper kingdom's in another place

not one is certain what's the proper case
nor how to separate the warp from weft
and now too swift and hurried is the race

exhaustion is inscribed deep in each face
we've given all we can nothing is left
our proper kingdom's in another place
and now too swift and hurried is the race


(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

southwest the heading

eventually you just run out of cays
the mainland comes upon you like a shock
even the angry ones fall on their knees

one cannot tell another what he sees
for feelings are so easy still to mock
eventually you just run out of cays

to get there you must go against the breeze
though other forces may your purpose block
even the angry ones fall on their knees

we have so many names for these blue seas
and we still cannot count them dock to dock
eventually you just run out of cays

we drank the bottle right down to the lees
but although others still would not take stock
even the angry ones fall on their knees

so soon a chance to rest and take your ease
once past the threats of shallows reef and rock
eventually you just run out of cays
even the angry ones fall on their knees

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

long past the time

long past the time when we would beauty spurn
we look upon the world with sadder eyes
knowing that each has for a time their turn

the fires that come will not a person burn
but those who know all effort may despise
long past the time when we would beauty spurn

we turned the milk to butter in a churn
we thought it work though not in obvious guise
knowing that each has for a time their turn

the age we find has too soon grown so stern
that all are trapped in a thick web of lies
long past the time when we would beauty spurn

where fire has past there quickly grows the fern
the one thing that the force of man defies
knowing that each has for a time their turn

our only purpose is to teach and learn
while in the distance a lone victim cries
long past the time when we would beauty spurn
knowing that each has for a time their turn

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

georgia at midwinter

raw wind and cold replace the pounding heat
no change we're told but just the turning year
but somehow matters don't seem quite so neat

winter has rushing but not heavy feet
we see much further when the trees are bare
raw wind and cold replace the pounding heat

a host of cars are parked right down the street
and imitation music fills the air
but somehow matters don't seem quite so neat

the wheel must turn but no one could complete
that longer cycle almost in despair
raw wind and cold replace the pounding heat

armies of clouds advance and then retreat
after some rain the world appears more fair
but somehow matters don't seem quite so neat

and yet some things remain that are still sweet
we have some joys and pleasures left to spare
raw wind and cold replace the pounding heat
but somehow matters don't seem quite so neat

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

eagerly listening

the theme repeated gives us a fresh lift
our hearts and minds rise swiftly up the air
this gentle rain's the dying year's last gift

through thoughts and feelings each of us must sift
to find the one that brings us greatest cheer
the theme repeated gives us a fresh lift

it does not matter if some fool is miffed
all that is good must fall within our care
this gentle rain's the dying year's last gift

there's time for lavishness and time for thrift
so long as we aren't taken by a snare
the theme repeated gives us a fresh lift

from all our sorrows we should come adrift
leaving the unwise just to wait and stare
this gentle rain's the dying year's last gift

too soon to duty soon we must be swift
and get back to the heart of the affair
the theme repeated gives us a fresh lift
this gentle rain's the dying year's last gift

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

the highest moment

the highest moment is when we attack
all of time bends into a simple shape
the world itself resolves to white and black

we hope for good things out of the great wrack
of monstrous beings at which idlers gape
the highest moment is when we attack

no one accounts us either lax or slack
but when we look things over on the tape
the world itself resolves to white and black

the palace gives less cover than the shack
not much is hidden by the largest cape
the highest moment is when we attack

we feel our presence as a sort of lack
from which we always hurry to escape
the world itself resolves to white and black

not eager now we huddle at the back
seeing the juice has vanished from the grape
the highest moment is when we attack
the world itself resolves to white and black

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

villanelle for the solstice

the sunset on a gloomy day will burn
with fires that each will echo on the tree
we celebrate with joy the sunreturn

dark night short day the wages that we earn
give us a chance to go upon a spree
the sunset on a gloomy day will burn

for warmer days and nights each heart must yearn
but for a while with green and red to see
we celebrate with joy the sunreturn

the ashes of the old go in their urn
we wait with knowledge that all will agree
the sunset on a gloomy day will burn

from all the evils that we seek to spurn
the kind and gentle heart at last shall flee
we celebrate with joy the sunreturn

we bid farewell to old care and concern
from pains and sorrows for a time shake free
the sunset on a gloomy day will burn
we celebrate with joy the sunreturn

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

a winter's tale

each phoenix vanishes in burst of fire
this year will pass we know from old to new
listen to the tale of hope and desire

we hear the legends passed from dam and sire
of how great hero the dread monster slew
each phoenix vanishes in burst of fire

each song is much repeated by each choir
the warming cup each time is thick as glue
listen to the tale of hope and desire

we watch the sparks fly higher ever higher
we walk outside on frost instead of dew
each phoenix vanishes in burst of fire

both wine and wit are much better drier
we tell ourselves as our spirits renew
listen to the tale of hope and desire

we all to higher purpose could aspire
instead we pause and take in all the view
each phoenix vanishes in burst of fire
listen to the tale of hope and desire

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

another planet

empty the ocean vacant all the land
a single bird cries although none will hear
there is no human who would understand

all things are tied up with a neat riband
the made and unmade are no longer near
empty the ocean vacant all the land

we look in vain for a creative hand
or for a heart to hold the world still dear
there is no human who would understand

the silence and the noise were both unplanned
and not a one is left to shout or cheer
empty the ocean vacant all the land

no music comes from instruments of band
no critic speaks generous or austere
there is no human who would understand

not even echo upon this last strand
absence alike of courage and of fear
empty the ocean vacant all the land
there is no human who would understand

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

no waiting

there is no limit to honest desire
but only to the bequest and the dower
it takes but little to set hearts afire

nobody does the things that we require
unless we've come at a propitious hour
there is no limit to honest desire

there are so many who we might admire
who turn out in the end to be a shower
it takes but little to set hearts afire

the ones who work who know how to perspire
will not in face of normal hardship cower
there is no limit to honest desire

choices we have though some are now most dire
but that is not enough to turn us sour
it takes but little to set hearts afire

although hard effort only serves to tire
still it's enough to bring us to full power
there is no limit to honest desire
it takes but little to set hearts afire

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

hidden from the road

the water in the pond is still and green
reeds on the edge are bending in the breeze
in the far distance sounds of a machine

the pathway fails to reach a place unseen
by human eyes unknown what the toad sees
the water in the pond is still and green

we climb on upwards since we're young and keen
and at this point not very hard to please
in the far distance sounds of a machine

each of us here is in a place between
what we once were and where we'll find our ease
the water in the pond is still and green

in front of us nothing acts as a screen
nor tells us that all change comes by degrees
in the far distance sounds of a machine

the moving air just makes the rushes lean
once we are gone others will laugh and tease
the water in the pond is still and green
in the far distance sounds of a machine

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

no other option

we live with choices that we did not make
for all the joys we have and all the shock
we find that only some will have it jake

the one approach that we disdained to take
brought with it revenue we dared not mock
we live with choices that we did not make

the water's never risen in the lake
we've all seen those left stranded on the rock
we find that only some will have it jake

the messenger announces no mistake
we've lost the thing on which we had a lock
we live with choices that we did not make

it's always someone else who gets to rake
in tons of money from successful stock
we find that only some will have it jake

the bread we eat we never learned to bake
we've never launched a boat from the sea dock
we live with choices that we did not make
we find that only some will have it jake

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

no older vision

we won't be well-rewarded by fair trade
whoever promises is just a knave
no one succeeds without some decent aid

the deepest cut comes from the thinnest blade
to face such weapons requires being brave
we won't be well-rewarded by fair trade

we hide from warmth within the spreading shade
not knowing what we need or what we crave
no one succeeds without some decent aid

we are too far now from the bee-loud glade
too little of bright youth could any save
we won't be well[-rewarded by fair trade

the whole thing's just another masquerade
we see the master swift turn into slave
no one succeeds without some decent aid

the day grows bright but always has to fade
we start out merry but too soon turn grave
we won't be well-rewarded by fair trade
no one succeeds without some decent aid

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

both near and far

if the map's wrong you will not find your goal
what shows in vision is just a mistake
you will have failed to comprehend the whole

the task requires that each takes on a rôle
of lord or peasant worker monk or rake
if the map's wrong you will not find your goal

to make the journey first you give parole
but if you cannot reach the mountain lake
you will have failed to comprehend the whole

so many come your good sense to extol
you may no longer tell the real from fake
if the map's wrong you will not find your goal

too soon you pass the last assigned patrol
in unknown places your intent will shake
you will have failed to comprehend the whole

no word we say will serve you to console
in times when even strongest trees shall break
if the map's wrong you will not find your goal
you will have failed to comprehend the whole

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

a finer purpose

when no one knows just how tired you are
you seem a giant to the wide-eyed child
whose heart and mind are fixed upon a star

the end's not near the starting point is far
you cannot understand being so mild
when no one knows just how tired you are

the prize is so much more than a cigar
you say this to the one who has just smiled
whose heart and mind are fixed upon a star

your soul is weighed and sold in the bazaar
and you discover how much you're reviled
when no one knows just how tired you are

the fruit's been boiled and stored inside a jar
you know the one who happy has been styled
whose heart and mind are fixed upon a star

we find the fall of night becomes no bar
since one who matters most starts to run wild
when no one knows just how tired you are
whose heart and mind are fixed upon a star

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

bounded in a nutshell

there are no landmarks in this empty place
not one of us who truly knows the way
we claim the kingship of infinite space

too easy now to fall into disgrace
mistaking fertile soil for dullest clay
there are no landmarks in this empty place

there is no route that anyone could trace
to lead us back into the common day
we claim the kingship of infinite space

and yet when you desire to set the pace
the rest of us with fear will want to stay
there are no landmarks in this empty place

for now we will old circumstance embrace
all that we see resolves to shades of grey
we claim the kingship of infinite space

a sort of fear will show up on each face
and not a one of us knows what to say
there are no landmarks in this empty place
we claim the kingship of infinite space

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

emancipation

we've heard the anguished ones daily appeal
nothing could ever be so clear or plain
we must at once restore the common weal

the harshest orders are not under seal
nor are our hopes so easy to attain
we've heard the anguished ones daily appeal

the slowest waggon moves on tyres of steel
the ones that pull it truly feel the strain
we must at once restore the common weal

hot and exhausted all the workers reel
they're not revived by hope of cool or rain
we've heard the anguished ones daily appeal

there's no time for harangue or lying spiel
only the swift may hope to catch the train
we must at once restore the common weal

who will not hear will surely have to feel
all the frustration and the searing pain
we've heard the anguished ones daily appeal
we must at once restore the common weal

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

human ability

we let both ills and remedies accrue
without intending trickery or deceit
what unites us is better than a glue

no one expects us nature to eschew
but we can't always bear the heavy heat
we let both ills and remedies accrue

someone may guess the actions that ensue
but we have got to keep a steady beat
what unites us is better than a glue

we'd come unstuck without a nail or screw
yet those who comment cannot be discreet
we let both ills and remedies accrue

upon our cud we're not happy to chew
not all the charges turn up on the sheet
what unites us is better than a glue

when it is time to say to us adieu
the slowest movement still will be most fleet
we let both ills and remedies accrue
what unites us is better than a glue

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

specific art

there's not so much that i can truly tell
either in prose or in a jigging rhyme
that can't be set within a villanelle

when thought and image in the poem jell
the whole effect is one we hope sublime
there's not so much that i can truly tell

the effort plays in mind a merry hell
words will be found unless we choose a clime
that can't be set within a villanelle

the poem's sound is clearer than a bell
each word and rhythm finds its proper time
there's not so much that i can truly tell

at back of mind the music has to swell
the words will overcome the steady chime
that can't be set within a villanelle

an honest incantation makes the spell
succeed and the counterspell a mere crime
there's not so much that i can truly tell
that can't be set within a villanelle

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

boyish adventure

in the dark gully there's no winding stream
a tiny forest where the spice trees bide
we see the creatures each twitching in dream

the sun comes in as occasional gleam
we have some time to climb the mountainside
in the dark gully there's no winding stream

at night we walk thanks to the clear moonbeam
while the night birds make little rodents hide
we see the creatures each twitching in dream

the low clouds seem to us a mist or steam
and on the dewy grass we slip and slide
in the dark gully there's no winding stream

for once we know that things are as they seem
and no one would demur or even deride
we see the creatures each twitching in dream

what we don't know is that we've got the cream
of life on sunny days bereft of pride
in the dark gully there's no winding stream
we see the creatures each twitching in dream

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

no larger mercies

the ones who see best do not use their eyes
to know the edges are both old and worn
such matters aren't reserved just to the wise

nothing much changes under different skies
folk weak and tired remain cold and forlorn
the ones who see best do not use their eyes

the boldest cannot always claim the prize
not all who lose their shoes step on a thorn
such matters aren't reserved just to the wise

it's not the power to rule and tyrannise
that leads to fury and to empty scorn
the ones who see best do not use their eyes

not every villain comes in sweet disguise
while even the most horrid still may mourn
such matters aren't reserved just to the wise

there are but few who say their last goodbyes
and fewer still who have learned how to warn
the ones who see best do not use their eyes
such matters aren't reserved just to the wise

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

passing no gates

telling the truth may always be bizarre
we have to do it with the proper flair
not every waggon's hitched up to a star

we do not dream the magical bazaar
where visions are conjured from empty air
telling the truth may always be bizarre

not all our music suits the large guitar
our eyes must be adjusted to the glare
not every waggon's hitched up to a star

no one has drowned beyond the harbour bar
who had not told us it was just unfair
telling the truth may always be bizarre

we see the mirage coming from afar
since in the emptiness we needs must stare
not every waggon's hitched up to a star

harsh ages and the weather cannot mar
the ones who truly learn to love and care
telling the truth may always be bizarre
not every waggon's hitched up to a star

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

finding the joke

truth we find out is always much too cheap
the worth of honesty comes out far less
there's nothing we should honour or should keep

the price of decency turns out too steep
for those who to no great crimes will confess
truth we find out is always much too cheap

we walk towards destruction in our sleep
and all unknowing find we've had bad cess
there's nothing we should honour or should keep

we sow what others will come by to reap
the grapes and olives we won't bring to press
truth we find out is always much too cheap

if we explore new seas we won't go deep
when moderation's taken for excess
there's nothing we should honour or should keep

we pile the fools' gold up in a great heap
and think that this will constitute redress
truth we find out is always much too cheap
there's nothing we should honour or should keep

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

plain governance

we let the shepherds wander through the rocks
the sheep are not lost and won't wander long
one must control the movements of the flocks

you put the prisoner in the public stocks
but all the people chorus his last song
we let the shepherds wander through the rocks

too easily we praise the one who mocks
and do not see such actions as just wrong
one must control the movement of the flocks

there is a better school than old hard knocks
but saying that alone won't make you strong
we let the shepherds wander through the rocks

a wiser one might shake his hoary locks
and take his place within the growing throng
one must control the movement of the flocks

you know enough to withstand the worst shocks
and the best way to work and play along
we let the shepherds wander through the rocks
one must control the movement of the flocks

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

bumbling achievement

we reach our goals by rougher means than guess
all gardens are alike when fruit turn ripe
what's best achieved produces the most stress

we blame all faults on surfeit and excess
and take no challenge from a guttersnipe
we reach our goals by rougher means than guess

there is no hope nor yet a hopelessness
the claims of either are just so much tripe
what's best achieved produces the most stress

don't you be waiting for the fine redress
promised by people of a certain type
we reach our goals by rougher means than guess

the choicest stuff goes to the wrong address
and to the ones of not so good a stripe
what's best achieved produces the most stress

we find out what has happened from the press
long after we thought matters had been ripe
we reach our goals by rougher means than guess
what's best achieved produces the most stress

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

no one knew how old it was

we take the oath beneath the spreading tree
there is no choice we must go to the knife
and bring to waking dreams of liberty

the day shall come that we had hoped to see
the other side of that long painful strife
we take the oath beneath the spreading tree

we must stand up and no more bend the knee
marching with haste to tune of drum and fife
and bring to waking dreams of liberty

we will stand fast and make the others flee
our ranks with anger and with hope are rife
we take the oath beneath the spreading tree

what we desire we shall make come to be
for brother sister for husband and wife
and bring to waking dreams of liberty

we will succeed we will set ourselves free
at last to find out all that's best in life
we take the oath beneath the spreading tree
and bring to waking dreams of liberty

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

far from the lonely mountain

far from the lonely mountain

a second's thought would give not one soul pause
but we are forced to halt and listen long
to what would be forbidden by most laws

we long shall wait in vain for springtime's thaws
and wonder just how all things went so wrong
a second's thought would not give one soul pause

beyond the mountains dragons with huge maws
wait to entice us in their scaly throng
to what would be forbidden by most laws

we see these creatures with their giant claws
ready to consume us both weak and strong
a second's thought would not give one soul pause

we have not understood their hunger's cause
nor how the sweetest honours might belong
to what would be forbidden by most laws

no word will counteract the final clause
we hear the voices in a sort of song
a second's thought would not give one soul pause
to what would be forbidden by most laws

(C)2008, Fragano Ledgister

words must be proper

a tiny glimpse of giant who was there
but now lies hidden by an old man's grief
the world may sometimes turn out to be fair

all things you did by the straight line and square
yet never once did you impose belief
a tiny glimpse of giant who was there

i do not know the view at which you stare
nor just what when a boy you called mischief
the world may sometimes turn out to be fair

all that i learned what that a man must dare
no matter that his glory will be brief
a tiny glimpse of giant who was there

it turns out there was nothing left to spare
and that still must have come as a relief
the world may sometimes turn out to be fair

there's something of you riding on the air
to chide the sluggard and upbraid the thief
a tiny glimpse of giant who was there
the world may sometimes turn out to be fair

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

so bloody what

all that's around us echoes hope and clatter
we aren't supposed to object to such joy
since nothing that we do will ever matter

our only task is to condone and flatter
and hope that no one can see through the ploy
all that's around us echoes hope and clatter

we just produce a shitload of raw patter
which when you listen will not swift annoy
since nothing that we do will ever matter

i know you think me madder than a hatter
but that is all the defence i deploy
all that's around us echoes hope and clatter

our only outcome is more idle chatter
a simple gimmick any could employ
since nothing that we do will ever matter

we have no tool that will not chip or shatter
and has more value than a children's toy
all that's around us echoes hope and clatter
since nothing that we do will ever matter

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

all's made most clear

a life is stolen but not one will care
who makes the choices does not see all ends
through all the byways only fools may fare

the purpose is to drive the calmest spare
up mountain roads with many hairpin bends
a life is stolen but not one will care

idiots will journey where goats would not dare
it's simple when you're not the one who wends
through all the byways only fools may fare

such matters it turns out are not as rare
as you might think since you're the one who rends
a life is stolen but not one will care

each sound will carry through the mountain air
to one who fights and to one who defends
through all the byways only fools may fare

let us be sure that we could sit and stare
while you receive whatever the foe sends
a life is stolen but not one will care
through all the byways only fools may fare

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

measure of duty

our obligation's never quite enough
we always end up with some sort of grief
while there's some idiot telling us life's tough

each morning we wake up grouchy and gruff
too short a sleep seems not to bring relief
our obligation's never quite enough

we take things easy just when they're most rough
yet mourn the imprint of each fallen leaf
while there's some idiot telling us life's tough

we know something's out there it's not a bluff
there really is some substance solid beef
our obligation's never quite enough

your ear's still warm from sudden ringing cuff
you hope our ship will wind up on the reef
while there's some idiot telling us life's tough

perhaps we'll turn out to have the right stuff
walk tall not creep like hungry furtive thief
our obligation's never quite enough
while there's some idiot telling us life's tough

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

all we may do is wait

once past the trees more houses dimly lurk
there is some fresh thing we just have to know
apart from all the fears and joys of work

we have to find our way through the dim murk
there's not one light here not even a false glow
once past the trees more houses dimly lurk

we do not face our woes instead we shirk
all duties and there's nothing we might show
apart from all the fears and joys of work

we gain our best desires by gun or dirk
that's better than the constant to and fro
once past the trees more houses dimly lurk

we are too calm to ever go berserk
as soon as we arrive we have to go
apart from all the fears and joys of work

we have to understand each tiny quirk
of meaning and the steady ebb and flow
once past the trees more houses dimly lurk
apart from all the fears and joys of work

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

so nothing's bright

we reach the boundaries of what's allowed
and pass without perception of a mark
before necessity all heads are bowed

we think ourselves the mighty and uncowed
what choices we confront are not so stark
we reach the boundaries of what's allowed

with nothing more than normal we're endowed
so not prepared either for war or dark
before necessity all heads are bowed

we never shall accomplish what was vowed
out of the clash there shall not come a spark
we reach the boundary of what's allowed

what's gone to shrub was once all neatly ploughed
good records once were kept by every clerk
before necessity all heads are bowed

every great madness moves within the crowd
we each shall find a means to jump the shark
we reach the boundary of what's allowed
before necessity all heads are bowed

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

the modern lyre

too many people choose the easy lie
we find our way to truth is always barred
to heights of knowledge no one dares to fly

we cannot trust the colour of the sky
nor if at evening it is brightly starred
too many people choose the easy lie

no wonder that none of you clamber high
honour and honesty you now have marred
to heights of knowledge no one dares to fly

it's all too obvious you're slick and sly
your face is set in lines that are too hard
too many people choose the easy lie

you sell not one thing i would want to buy
lies and false reasons set out by the yard
to heights of knowledge no one dares to fly

your sight can never please the decent eye
no honest word is written on your card
too many people choose the easy lie
to heights of knowledge no one dares to fly

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

looking westward

we thank our stars that we've come through the day
few odds we had and chances seemed most slight
on tired feet still we have found the way

the soil is shallow on the hardpan clay
rocks and red stains our best efforts requite
we thank our stars that we've come through the day

all happier places seem so far away
what we do does not now demand much might
on tired feet still we have found the way

we see the sunset in the western bay
as in the east there comes the cooler night
we thank our stars that we've come through the day

we tell ourselves that we don't have to stay
and face each other in a hopeless fight
on tired feet still we have found the way

we make our work what children see as play
the largest serpent has the mildest bite
we thank our stars that we've come through the day
on tired feet still we have found the way

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

needed sacrifice

what's given to the gods is not a waste
shoved into memory and kept alive
we hurry but we show too little haste

what we most cherish is now firmly cased
in the one place we think it ought to thrive
what's given to the gods is not a waste

the body and the mind together laced
provide an answer we might not derive
we hurry but we show too little haste

against the storm we seek not to be braced
a proper ending one day must arrive
what's given to the gods is not a waste

on no hard evidence our hope is based
we've taken hardest blows some four or five
we hurry but we show too little haste

the best thing that we had was the first taste
of freshest honey taken from the hive
what's given to the gods is not a waste
we hurry but we show too little haste

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

back from a journey

we see so little of the great surround
a moment's pause would be no major cost
time's not valued in euro or in pound

we cross vast distances in one huge bound
from end to end we're prodded and we're bossed
we see so little of the great surround

isolate behind our high walls of sound
we do not see the waves on which we're tossed
time's not valued in euro or in pound

alone upon our little bits of ground
we have no care for all the miles we've crossed
we see so little of the great surround

each of us kings on our own midden-mound
fearful of rain and drought and heat and frost
time's not valued in euro or in pound

not one of us knows just what we've here found
nor why in finding we become the lost
we see so little of the great surround
time's not valued in euro or in pound

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

before the storm

you know the story and you tell it straight
it is not yours but still you know the need
whatever happens you will not blame fate

the horse may shiver at the starting gate
its jockey now knows better than to plead
you know the story and you tell it straight

each fire is banked up right behind the grate
we need the warmth but have no wish for speed
whatever happens you will not blame fate

no hasty action will break the last plate
whoever does the washing has to bleed
you know the story and you tell it straight

my father learned to write on broken slate
what others had was vanity or greed
whatever happens you will not blame fate

the best ones travel slowly and as freight
knowing true propaganda is the deed
you know the story and you tell it straight
whatever happens you will not blame fate

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

duties of passage

the blind man knows the voices of the road
on cooler mornings he may choose to speak
you walk on uphill carrying your load

service and work become a kind of goad
you cannot find because you will not seek
the blind man knows the voices of the road

we know the symbols we don't know the code
whenever word may come it will be bleak
you walk on uphill carrying your load

the sunshine inside him will not explode
through his four senses it may not yet leak
the blind man knows the voices of the road

we come at last to complex knot or node
the winner is not ever one who's meek
you walk on uphill carrying your load

along the slope no stream has ever flowed
you make it here because you are not weak
the blind man knows the voices of the road
you walk on uphill carrying your load

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

a newer better song

for once they'll have a newer better song
to celebrate the turning of the tide
they'll do it loudly but they'll do it wrong

we think it good to leave behind the throng
and snuggle safe and warm right here inside
for once they'll have a newer better song

it won't be obvious and it won't be long
and there'll be nothing left for us to hide
they'll do it loudly but they'll do it wrong

the last one in will listen for the gong
and won't a single syllable elide
for once they'll have a newer better song

you'll pay your fare and then you'll go along
not one thing said will be inept or snide
they'll do it loudly but they'll do it wrong

who once were weak now claim to be the strong
you know quite well they'll take you for a ride
for once they have a newer better song
they'll do it loudly but they'll do it wrong

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

not a mere windbag

all echoes come down in the end to none
a single shadow turns into the night
each cycle reaches the end of its run

we thought it work and then we thought it fun
but did not see it as a moral plight
all echoes come down in the end to none

what falls between the rhyming word and pun
will always have a place in proper site
each cycle reaches the end of its run

a well-aimed blow will bruise as well as stun
honest control's the secret of our might
all echoes come down in the end to none

what was not finished was not best begun
you can't convict if first you don't indict
each cycle reaches the end of its run

you have the word while others have the gun
who has the power will also have the right
all echoes come down in the end to none
each cycle reaches the end of its run

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

caught in the wheel

stars do not change their courses for a thought
reality considers no desire
we never win the things for which we fought

a moment and we find that we've been caught
in agony upon the final wire
stars do not change their courses for a thought

we wonder at the consequences wrought
by small expressions of a righteous ire
we never win the things for which we fought

the lesson which you vaguely thought we taught
is more than any person might require
stars do not change their courses for a thought

when all the enemy is sold or bought
we'll face the matters to which they aspire
we never win the things for which we fought

all of our effort will add up to nought
the honest one is beaten by the liar
stars do not change their courses for a thought
we never win the things for which we fought

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

restless the gleam

the world is shaped by word as well as act
this golden light reminds us of the time
before the thought we have to see the fact

what we've gained here you once sorely lacked
it's too long since we heard the tower bell chime
the world is shaped by word as well as act

the town we said was safe has long been sacked
its walls all rendered down to ash and lime
before the thought we have to see the fact

we sign our names with haste to the compact
in fear of horrors wars and simple crime
the world is shaped by word as well as act

the path we've taken is the one you tracked
uphill and downhill through the mud and slime
before the thought we have to see the fact

there will be some who cannot treat or pact
laughing when they observe you in your prime
the world is shaped by word as well as act
before the thought we have to see the fact

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

soul of the age

where shadows hide the truth from normal eyes
a sort of fear that comes when we're in light
we worry about terrorists and spies

familiar face turns out to be disguise
there's absence of alarm through the long night
where shadows hide the truth from normal eyes

each one who sells requires the one who buys
what chance there is of change is truly slight
we worry about terrorists and spies

not one pays heed to the dark victim's cries
we're certain that our choices come out right
where shadows hide the truth from normal eyes

we have to cling to the false enterprise
for all that its true fuel is mere spite
we worry about terrorists and spies

there is no truth behind the buzzing lies
only the boasts and claims of storied might
where shadows hide the truth from normal eyes
we worry about terrorists and spies

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

hillside to hillside

one flash of colour in the ranks of green
below the valley fills right up with shade
we can't be sure just what we have now seen

between the spaces there's never a screen
we get from point to point without your aid
one flash of colour in the ranks of green

we come and then we pass right from the scene
others will see as quaint the games we played
we can't be sure just what we have now seen

for a brief moment there's a golden sheen
but it was gone at once from the parade
one flash of colour in the ranks of green

we will not be the ones that we had been
from the high path we all have fled or strayed
we can't be sure just what we have now seen

allow no one to tell you what you mean
you alone know just how you make the grade
one flash of colour in the ranks of green
we can't be sure just what we have now seen

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

a finished project

so many words and then not one word more
you send them out and wait to hear their fate
not one of us who truly knows the score

they're not the same as the ones gone before
there's greater difference than the time and date
so many words and then not one word more

the mind has so much in its ordered store
for those who hurry and for those who wait
not one of us who truly knows the score

you do your best to entertain not bore
cleaning old messages from the worn slate
so many words and then not one word more

who could remember what each hero wore
to meet the host that gathered at the gate
not one of us who truly knows the score

we let the thoughts in giant gushes pour
while all of us hold forth upon the state
so many words and then not one word more
not one of us who truly knows the score

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

there's still a glow

if you can find a place within your heart
for all the light that fades at end of day
you will know something of the human art

we're climbing a huge mountain from the start
at first it's easy and we think it play
if you can find a place within your heart

but then we come to a much harder part
uncertain how to go or if to stay
you will know something of the human art

in sunset skies we see the small birds dart
not knowing whether predator or prey
if you can find a place within your heart

you place your luggage on the waiting cart
and where you may then find it who can say
you will know something of the human art

the highest peaks are not found on the chart
and to achieve them takes a stranger way
if you can find a place within your heart
you will know something of the human art

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

some paths of time

who wants to know may not be given light
choices are made by those without a line
once past the way of duty it is night

who speaks may have but little force or might
the silent in their armchairs all recline
who wants to know may not be given light

rule or no rule that all depends on spite
wires that are taut may still vibrate and whine
once past the way of duty it is night

measure proves nothing neither weight nor height
for all your acts we may in time repine
who wants to know may not be given light

the obvious is hidden in the rite
to better causes may the mind incline
once past the way of duty it is night

these mysteries require no sort of flight
although we're weak we say that we are fine
who wants to know may not be given light
once past the way of duty it is night

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

drums on a saturday

    a host of vultures on the thermals glide
    seeking dead bodies on the living rock
    nature provides but few places to hide

    from peak to lowland we won't make the slide
    a tree or bush our downward path will block
    a host of vultures on the thermals glide

    reality is what we can't elide
    the living on the gravestones have to knock
    nature provides but few places to hide

    upon the highroad those on muleback ride
    driving before them thirsty herd or flock
    a host of vultures on the thermals glide

    in this odd place we cannot long abide
    we've barely got the time just to take stock
    nature provides but few places to hide

    the roads we walk on have no room for pride
    we're governed by the calendar and clock
    a host of vultures on the thermals glide
    nature provides but few places to hide

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

bright pebbles

    we find ourselves with clarity in stone
    rivers and seas over our hearts must flow
    the calmest mind is in its proper zone

    listen in quiet as the bent trees groan
    too late for them the first sign of fresh snow
    we find ourselves with clarity in stone

    each knows that they must face the dark alone
    you tarry for a moment then you go
    the calmest mind is in its proper zone

    there's never sin for which you must atone
    the one who so proclaims them is our foe
    we find ourselves with clarity in stone

    there's naught but silence on the telephone
    outside we note that the winds starts to blow
    the calmest mind is in its proper zone

    the bird of wisdom into night has flown
    each turns their back on the last reddish glow
    we find ourselves with clarity in stone
    the calmest mind is in its proper zone

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

within reason

    lay out the answers and the truth is seen
    what's most desired is not the thing most known
    we watch the yearly fading of the green

    you play your parts and then pass from the scene
    the normal given's not what is most shown
    lay out the answers and the truth is seen

    an honest explanation has no sheen
    the prettiest flower is the one first blown
    we watch the yearly fading of the green

    what we call virtues others take for spleen
    you seek plain words but find out they have flown
    lay out the answers and the truth is seen

    truth vanishes from places in between
    the only thing that echoes is the stone
    we watch the yearly fading of the green

    you've never understood just what we mean
    and for your crimes we all must now atone
    lay out the answers and the truth is seen
    we watch the yearly fading of the green

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

night on the hillside

night on the hillside

    a path of diamonds in the velvet sky
    out in the bush we look above in awe
    the magic is apparent to each eye

    nightbirds alarming as they pass us by
    shocking the silence every raucous caw
    a path of diamonds in the velvet sky

    the world in calm and stillness does not lie
    we hear near us the skittering of small paw
    the magic is apparent to each eye

    the brilliant stars are so clear and so high
    we will on them the shapes of mouth and claw
    a path of diamonds in the velvet sky

    the old man is amazed we are so spry
    his wisdom is summed up in an old saw
    the magic is apparent to each eye

    we've learned the things that no one can deny
    and find we're subject to a constant law
    a path of diamonds in the velvet sky
    the magic is apparent to each eye

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

all-island rain

after a while i know the rain won't pause
so i must trudge on through the dark and wet
to get home safely is my only cause

i've always been afraid of rod or tawse
but with one purpose i am fairly set
after a while i know the rain won't pause

closing my book on subordinate clause
i look at the last street-light with regret
to get home safely is my only cause

no monsters wait to take me in their maws
until i reach my door i won't be met
after a while i know the rain won't pause

there are no tigers with their long sharp claws
in the dark forests that i half-forget
to get home safely is my only cause

i am obedient to the lesser laws
if i should drown there's not one who would fret
after a while i know the rain won't pause
to get home safely is my only cause

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

capitalism gone mad

news comes of death and fear and of great pain
we've got a world where crises never cease
and all that drives us now is hope of gain

we should not ask the nature of that stain
that sinks into the pavement unlike grease
news comes of death and fear and of great pain

we learn the facts and we learn them all plain
the terrors come without pause or surcease
and all that drives us now is hope of gain

there'll be no healing here from gentle rain
we may have come to ending of our lease
news comes of death and fear and of great pain

not one hand rises our own to sustain
no one will come our hearts and eyes to please
and all that drives us now is hope of gain

we're punished if we go against the grain
never again may we have rest or ease
news comes of death and fear and of great pain
and all that drives us now is hope of gain

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

no need for wit

there's nothing more of us you may require
beyond the seas we've no need of your aid
there's not one thing that can withstand the fire

with you the hidden ones may well conspire
some things are best done in the evening shade
there's nothing more of us you may require

warnings will be printed on a flier
and then forgotten everything must fade
there's not one thing that can withstand the fire

the message goes to every rural shire
through many rivers your horses must wade
there's nothing more of us you may require

your hope lies in the midden and the byre
in entities that were not proper made
there's not one thing that can withstand the fire

the longest silence will confound a liar
so many want to enter the parade
there's nothing more of us you may require
there's not one thing that can withstand the fire

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

no distant music

we do not ever know the proper cause
of all the pains and sorrows that we face
the whole thing is not due to higher laws

the hungry tiger shows its shining claws
signs of great power and of a fiery grace
we do not ever know the proper cause

the noise continues without any pause
each is confined to a restricted space
the whole thing is not due to higher laws

spring will refresh us with its rains and thaws
but autumn plods on at a steady pace
we do not ever know the proper cause

one who would lead us never hems and haws
and shows us clear concern in smiling face
the whole thing is not due to higher laws

we are not made to bow before applause
as creatures of the fearful human race
we do not ever know the proper cause
the whole thing is not due to higher laws

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

in the deep bush

there is no silence in the richest green
life makes its presence known in many ways
in memory we are what we had once been

we climb the rocks our bodies firm and lean
in the deep bush each gully seems a maze
there is no silence in the richest green

on small adventures we are very keen
all in these woods is subject to our gaze
in memory we are what we had once been

the shadowed floor is full of things that mean
but to decypher them takes many days
there is no silence in the richest green

high in the trees a hungry hawk may keen
a tiny movement fearful mouse betrays
in memory we are what we had once been

we were not then built into the machine
having so much to understand and praise
there is no silence in the richest green
in memory we are what we had once been

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

on the warm hillside

lights on the lowland in the velvet night
and further out the deeper darker sea
we find the rules are neither true nor right

there's some small comfort in the normal sight
a time exists that gives us room to be
lights on the lowland in the velvet night

the sense of wonder is not small nor slight
from this calm place each knows he has to flee
we find the rules are neither true nor right

the night's as dark as day is dazzling bright
and ghosts and spirits hang beneath each tree
lights on the lowland in the velvet night

there are no demons though for us to smite
nor beings to whom we have to bend knee
we find the rules are neither true nor right

against nostalgia we still have to fight
memory and truth will not ever agree
lights on the lowland in the velvet night
we find the rules are neither true nor right

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

in the dark wood

only in shadows do we dare to dream
haste renders void with one actinic flash
we can survive without the golden beam

truth has no colour falsehood has a gleam
what glitters most is the foulest of trash
only in shadows do we dare to dream

respect what heroes a fair process deem
and never yield to baton nor to lash
we can survive without the golden beam

sewage is sold us as the finest cream
against a rigid wall we have to smash
only in shadows do we dare to dream

the angry river is no precious stream
upon its rocks the fragile boats will bash
we can survive without the golden beam

plain honest truth is just another meme
the thing that truly matters is cold cash
only in shadows do we dare to dream
we can survive without the golden beam

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

a feast of echoes

the bell we hear is not the truest bell
drums beat and violins expand the sound
music and heart in unison will swell

the joyous tympani can't sound a knell
rhythmic perfection shall old pain confound
the bell we hear is not the truest bell

the truths discovered we now must not tell
honour and justice will our words impound
music and heart in unison will swell

richness and depth our warmest thoughts impel
the greatest mountain is a gentle mound
the bell we hear is not the truest bell

we may not recollect what just befell
nor any treasures that we may have found
music and heart in unison will swell

there's not a thing that we would buy or sell
instead we'll make a stand upon our ground
the bell we hear is not the truest bell
music and heart in unison will swell

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

honour without profit

we give each thing we see and sense a name
and think that gives us all the truest power
but cannot see what's real and what's a game

each hopes the rain will fail to douse the flame
but then rejoices in the longed-for shower
we give each thing we see and sense a name

the world we have is never truly tame
each of us in our shelters has to cower
but cannot see what's real and what's a game

you'd seek to blame the enemies who came
and rendered sterile what had been our dower
we give each thing we see and sense a name

each may define the proper shaping frame
and leave pain stranded in the highest tower
but cannot see what's real and what's a game

if we don't shun the glory and the fame
our deepest hopes will not last out the hour
we give each thing we see and sense a name
but cannot see what's real and what's a game

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

bar the shouting

you make the trip knowing how it will end
but choices do not matter in this light
behind their faces each has to pretend

we get some things and others we must send
and then forget them when they're out of sight
you make the trip knowing how it will end

the road's not straight and hell is round the bend
our passengers are now half-dead with fright
behind their faces each has to pretend

we borrow glory but you've cannot lend
us one more thing than we would have of right
you make the trip knowing how it will end

if we attack you cannot just defend
you can't match strokes and that is the worst plight
behind their faces each has to pretend

what has been broken you can never mend
nor can you find an answer in the night
you make the trip knowing how it will end
behind their faces each has to pretend

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

west of black river

let each small gift become a larger sign
of what we hope and what we have to know
peace falls at last on both sides of the line

the shore is cleansed each day by foamy brine
trees take their shape from steady winds that blow
let each small gift become a larger sign

we watch the river and the sea entwine
waters move swiftly and then they move slow
peace falls at last on both sides of the line

the sand that forms the beach is sugar-fine
and in the sunset almost seems to glow
let each small gift become a larger sign

the reef ahead seems like a stony spine
and still the tides will steady ebb and flow
peace falls at last on both sides of the line

in the warm night we slowly sip our wine
and when time comes we will arise and go
let each small gift become a larger sign
peace falls at last on both sides of the line

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

a kind of epitaph

we will not leave unchanged from this sad place
no terror's left to frighten those who dare
we're not the glory of the human race

each of us wishes we could leave some trace
of who we were hanging bright in the air
we will not leave unchanged from this sad place

we shed all satin and we shed all lace
still we will not be either cold or bare
we''re not the glory of the human race

when we are gone we'll leave behind no space
nor will the world be less stark or less fair
we will not leave unchanged from this sad place

our hands are suited not to gun or mace
nor to such weapons as the great may spare
we're not the glory of the human race

the plainest truth is seen in every face
lineaments of honesty and care
we will not leave unchanged from this sad place
we're not the glory of the human race

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

hoping for more rain

when the rules change we can't be satisfied
a moment's thought will serve to give us pause
nothing eventuates but out of pride

we can't be sure that you will not deride
all that we say each single phrase and clause
when the rules change we can't be satisfied

our urgent need will not here be denied
we see the benefits and all the flaws
nothing eventuates but out of pride

we told the truth but you just would have lied
and quickly bowed and smiled at the applause
when the rules change we can't be satisfied

we have no secrets left for you to hide
there is no one who knows the primal cause
nothing eventuates but out of pride

were we alone we just might let things slide
but once observed are subject to the laws
when the rules change we can't be satisfied
nothing eventuates but out of pride

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

one time long time

choices were made and life seemed very good
until we saw what lay beyond the cloud
all shattered now is hope of brotherhood

our rulers' heads are made of rock or wood
and yet they stand above us high and proud
choices were made and life seemed very good

the hangman comes frowning beneath his hood
and in his presence none dares speak too loud
all shattered now is hope of brotherhood

not one of us who did the things we could
survives to seek true shelter in the crowd
choices were made and life seemed very good

there was nothing that was not understood
yet when it happened we were swiftly cowed
all shattered now is hope of brotherhood

if we went back we know that we still would
end in the same place backs bent and heads bowed
choices were made and life seemed very good
all shattered now is hope of brotherhood

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

quest fever

night makes the shapes that come to us in dream
each of us travels through that realm of dark
forever seeking one last noble gleam

we hold our visions in lowest esteem
that other world seems a most dreadful park
night makes the shapes that come to us in dream

we hate to watch the last fading sunbeam
fearing deep shadows and terrors most stark
forever seeking one last noble gleam

we get a message a confusing meme
facing a stern judge and an evil clerk
night makes the shapes that come to us in dream

we wake and paper fills up by the ream
with words that waking mind may truly mark
forever seeking one last noble gleam

the journey's made with neither sail nor steam
from light to light we follow the stone's arc
night makes the shape that come to us in dream
forever seeking one last noble gleam

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

that strain again

we cannot truly understand the past
all that we know is not enough to tell
history's a stream on which we all are cast

things happen and they happen very fast
it is all over when they ring the bell
we cannot truly understand the past

not even time to pack up the repast
before we see the ocean rise and swell
history's a stream on which we all are cast

we may recover from the sudden blast
but not accept either vision or smell
we cannot truly understand the past

our colours now hang limply from the mast
we find there is no water in the well
history's a stream on which we all are cast

the prize will be withheld until the last
we listen for that final aching knell
we cannot truly understand the past
history's a stream on which we all are cast

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

liberty is not a dream

we do not leave a single root behind
the cords that bind us are extremely long
we take whatever givens we can find

we start our journey well and truly blind
and every turn we take we learn is wrong
we do not leave a single root behind

there is no past for which we could have pined
all our connections mean we must be strong
we take whatever givens we can find

beyond all horrors we are humankind
it is to ourselves that we most belong
we do not leave a single root behind

through annual struggle and daily grind
each is alone though always in a throng
we take whatever givens we can find

we find no answers but a questing mind
no cheery words but one heroic song
we do not leave a single root behind
we take whatever givens we can find


(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

no duppy runner

beside the road old spirits congregate
we hear their voices twitter in night air
while cold upon our necks is urgent fate

we left our starting time until too late
this is a place where people disappear
beside the road old spirits congregate

the road we pass on never has been straight
the way to safety is far less than clear
while cold upon our necks is urgent fate

darkness of history a deadly freight
there is no sanctuary in the square
beside the road old spirits congregate

we cannot sight or sound obliviate
those who might shelter simply do not care
while cold upon our necks is urgent fate

each will forget the season and the date
there's not a drop of courage left to spare
beside the road old spirits congregate
while cold upon our necks is urgent fate

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

a thrice-told tale

now truth becomes what we seek in the green
arrive too late and you have missed the flower
what matters most is what you have not seen

plain facts are told in maner most serene
no lightnings play about a gloomy tower
now truth becomes what we seek in the green

what's honest cannot ever be obscene
but prudes and puritans will always glower
what matters most is what you have not seen

we always have to show respectful mien
to those who could our hopes and loves devour
now truth becomes what we seek in the green

our own desires will matter not a bean
pasts may be sweet but futures may turn sour
what matters most is what you have not seen

the beggar girl must dream of being queen
the slave of days when in his hands lies power
now truth becomes what we seek in the green
what matters most is what you have not seen

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

to resist such gods

the gods who made us seem to hate us all
they make our lives all misery and pain
we always have to stand up from the fall

all human power will sicken and appall
if two men kiss we will withhold the rain
the gods who made us seem to hate us all

we will chop down the stalks that stand too tall
converting into loss all of your gain
we always have to stand up from the fall

your ventures will all sail into a squall
and if you're lucky will come out again
the gods who made us seem to hate us all

the princess will be struck down at the ball
over the kingdom comes a noisome stain
we always have to stand up from the fall

we will not listen though you have to call
we make things difficult when they are plain
the gods who made us seem to hate us all
we always have to stand up from the fall

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

no platonic shadows

when veneers crack the end comes very soon
the scent of pain cuts across every line
we think it midnight but we call it noon

though vultures gather they will never croon
not even when they watch the falling kine
when veneers crack the end comes very soon

at night we listen for the lonely loon
on lakes whose banks are thick with fir and pine
we think it midnight but we call it noon

promises made by light of the full moon
crumble to powder if we have to sign
when veneers crack the end comes very soon

we wake and then we wonder why you swoon
the greatest hopes plain life will undermine
we think it midnight but we call it noon

we ask for peace as if it were a boon
but cannot wait our metal to refine
when veneers crack the end comes very soon
we think it midnight but we call it noon

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

the greater world

so close the sea at the same time so far
the beach is foolishness so we are told
we carry distant vision like a scar

we try so hard but can never reach par
our efforts are pathetic you will scold
so close the sea at the same time so far

a stolen hour with a superb cigar
the world seems large and i must now be bold
we carry distant vision like a scar

the honey flows from out the broken jar
the day was hot but now my skin turns cold
so close the sea at the same time so far

to open just one window of the car
and clearer moments might just then unfold
we carry distant vision like a scar

that distant house seems just another star
we know the way and followed it of old
so close the sea at the same time so far
we carry distant vision like a scar

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

destiny

a moment in the sun and we are lost
beyond the hope of any swift return
life smiles but every kindness has a cost

no cheque we write can easily be crossed
we end up spending more than we can earn
a moment in the sun and we are lost

like cattle we too swiftly can be bossed
and show our simple hunger at each turn
life smiles but every kindness has a cost

we see our chances in those we accost
we are too careful any odds to spurn
a moment in the sun and we are lost

into the living stream we each are tossed
there's so much that we swiftly have to learn
life smiles but every kindness has a cost

we have to withstand both the heat and frost
to overcome the different sorts of burn
a moment in the sun and we are lost
life smiles but every kindness has a cost

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

a lesser light

some clarity is more than we desire
the weight of sky bears down on every head
we end in water or we end in fire

to what high regions might we not aspire
were it not for our constant sense of dread
some clarity is more than we desire

the one who falsifies is not the liar
what truly matters sinks faster than lead
we end in water or we end in fire

the race continues right down to the wire
we cannot ever tell just who's ahead
some clarity is more than we desire

could we from this long contest now retire
others would rush to pull the heavy sled
we end in water or we end in fire

the virtues all end up on a bonfire
nothing could ever matter more than bread
some clarity is more than we desire
we end in water or we end in fire

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

roi de mes douleurs

against the coming day is no defence
we take what we are given and we smile
there's never reason for hurrying hence

we add together all the pounds and pence
that does not ever take us a long while
against the coming day is no defence

there isn't any green past the last fence
and we all reach that place in the same style
there's never reason for hurrying hence

nor do we have much reason for suspense
nothing remains once you have crossed the stile
against the coming day is no defence

no need for sacrifice or burnt incense
there is no angel at the last defile
there's never reason for hurrying hence

we can't expect the whole thing to make sense
from the last injury we won't resile
against the coming day is no defence
there's never reason for hurrying hence

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

distracted by externals

the blue looks warm but that is just a lie
we are not fooled by this day's cheery glow
no clouds to soften the starkness of sky

into the meanings of some truths we pry
driven by the relentless urge to know
the blue looks warm but that is just a lie

our thoughts like this long year are awful dry
we see the river falter in its flow
no clouds to soften the starkness of sky

all subtlety and meaning we'll supply
we'll laugh until it's time for us to go
the blue looks warm but that is just a lie

we listen for the day-bird's hungry cry
to tell us what is and what isn't so
no clouds to soften the starkness of sky

truth is not what we understand by eye
some things move fast but others are too slow
the blue looks warm but that is just a lie
no clouds to soften the starkness of sky

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

The idiots' guide to the villanelle

I haven't any sense, but I can jaw
as well as any idiot out here --
my writing is the Underworld, not law.

My spelling's bad, you try it with a claw,
but writing is to me the thing most dear;
I haven't any sense, but I can jaw.

I have no dog, yet I am a cat's paw,
and now you have me weeping in my beer:
my writing is the Underworld, not law.

You are such beasts, my nerves are now quite raw
and I am feeling very odd and queer --
I haven't any sense, but I can jaw.

The words keep sticking in my witchy craw,
I'm trying to behave stern and austere,
my writing is the Underworld, not law.

My feelings have been rubbed completely raw,
you people set my mind all out of gear.
I haven't any sense, but I can jaw;
my writing is the Underworld, not law.

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

for gail -- ii

let us remember what the best times are
hold fast to them though winds blow hard and cold
you are my morning and my evening star

between us i am glad there is no bar
coming together makes us both seem bold
let us remember what the best times are

our journey takes us both to places far
this is our story and it shall be told
you are my morning and my evening star

the light you shed will never burn nor char
of you i sing and of you shall i hold
let us remember what the best times are

we seal our feelings in a magic jar
they are for us our silver and our gold
you are my morning and my evening star

there is no trade in market or bazaar
of what in this small space we shall enfold
let us remember what the best times are
you are my morning and my evening star

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

pondside legend

we have our own atlantis had we known
that this tale would appear in such a guise
a better attitude we might have shown

a salty wind upon this ground has blown
the ones who lurk might just as well be spies
we have our own atlantis had we known

the sky above bright and hostile has grown
while the blue sea is seething with surprise
a better attitude we might have shown

a village vanishes without a groan
the angry sea for a moment would rise
we have our own atlantis had we known

into the pond we dare not drop a stone
don't wonder at persistence of the flies
a better attitude we might have shown

nothing is left behind not flesh nor bone
just quiet water appears to our eyes
we have our own atlantis had we known
a better attitude we might have shown

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

what can be known

there's no significance in all these signs
we do not gather what we ought to know
not one of us can stay between the lines

we serve the terms or else we pay the fines
the motion of the planets seems too slow
there's no significance in all these signs

within no boundaries nor small confines
we find the place where rivers start to flow
not one of us can stay between the lines

the truest ore is not found in the mines
the stoutest pillar crumbles at a blow
there's no significance in all these signs

never elegant nor dressed to the nines
but still not capable to wield a hoe
not one of us can stay between the lines

the choices are not of spirits or wines
but of a vision that should truly glow
there's no significance in all these signs
not one of us can stay between the lines

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

silhouettes

the world arrives in more than black and white
our eyes can catch of all of this but part
another day has conquered awful night

we cannot see the future that's our plight
to be so wise but still not to be smart
the world arrives in more than black and white

the chains that bind us still cannot unite
we all of us were different from the start
another day has conquered awful night

the victory won't always go to might
into some crevices the agile dart
the world arrives in more than black and white

no answer comes to us through proper rite
we throw the carcass onto waiting cart
another day has conquered awful night

the monster cannot take a single bite
the skin is safer than the trembling heart
the world arrives in more than black and white
another day has conquered awful night

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

we're irrelevant

we cannot tell the white cord from the black
all of our hope has gone into the fire
we're still constrained to stay right at the back

if you are honest you'll just get the sack
the one who wins is the outrageous liar
we cannot tell the white cord from the black

no winds are left to lurk within the sack
the statue cannot stand upon the spire
we're still constrained to stay right at the back

the truth is never what's told by the flack
nor what is sung by the most sweet-voiced choir
we cannot tell the white cord from the black

what once was profit now turns into lack
what once we hated now we most desire
we're still constrainted to stay right at the back

through densest bush a way we have to hack
only to find we've fallen in the mire
we cannot tell the white cord from the black
we're still constrained to stay right at the back

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

behind the cloud

we tell ourselves the most beguiling lies
while step by step we head towards the brink
the world's not real enough for our old eyes

no cavalry will ride down from the skies
and none of us remembers how to think
we tell ourselves the most beguiling lies

we blame all crime on saboteurs and spies
our minds cannot compass the missing link
the world's not real enough for our old eyes

we will not even praise the one who tries
to draw the message from the opaque ink
we tell ourselves the most beguiling lies

the one who answers is not one who buys
the silence and the knowing little wink
the world's not real enough for our old eyes

we cannot hearken to the one who cries
instead we bow our heads and sip our drink
we tell ourselves the most beguiling lies
the world's not real enough for our old eyes

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

a single leaf

a single leaf is history in green
our knowledge does not vanish into past
we are the sum of all that we have seen

there are some places where we have not been
nor have we served for years before the mast
a single leaf is history in green

once each of us hoped to be king or queen
not knowing into what streams we'd be cast
we are the sum of all that we have seen

in memory still bright we find the scene
when thought transfixed us making us stand fast
a single leaf is history in green

that moment when a single branch would lean
to show just where dramatic breeze had passed
we are the sum of all that we have seen

the world is still made up of things that mean
but nothing that we want can hope to last
a single leaf is history in green
we are the sum of all that we have seen

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

what ought to happen

within the forest are no magic folk
we walk for hours and find no sign of elves
only the sounds of leaves and the odd croak

rain makes the past into the humus soak
more than bent backs reward the one who delves
within the forest are no magic folk

you'll soon turn out an ordinary bloke
no magic axe-heads will fly off the helves
only the sounds of leaves and the odd croak

no númenor nor wizard isle of roke
just the plain schools for ordinary selves
within the forest are no magic folk

we may incant and the dim fires stoke
but have no means of transcending ourselves
only the sounds of leaves and the odd croak

and so each head will bend under the yoke
the mystic trees turn into walls and shelves
within the forest are no magic folk
only the sound of leaves and the odd croak

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

how it goes on

i hear the voices of the noisy birds
they're at the old and truly magic dance
communication requires less than words

were they to congregate in flocks or herds
how else would each its pleasant cause advance
i hear the voices of the noisy birds

this principle the one that undergirds
all of our movements is not simple chance
communication requires less than words

we ask these questions seeming to be nerds
whose focus is on meaning not romance
i hear the voices of the noisy birds

life draws significance from all these surds
so much expressed in fractions of a glance
communication requires less than words

to get the truth of milk we need the curds
and so we need to watch these creatures prance
i hear the voices of the noisy birds
communication requires less than words

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

savage wars of peace

each dragon bears a monkey on its back
which one's the guide and leader is not clear
to fable-mongers we allow no slack

upon whole elephants the serpents snack
no rider will allow a sign of fear
each dragon bears a monkey on its back

the last knight flees high up the mountain track
the end of chivalry has now come near
to fable-mongers we allow no slack

a heavy smoke comes from volcanic crack
it does not bother those high up in air
each dragon bears a monkey on its back

wolves hunt the shepherds in a hungry pack
while trolls and demons fill the village square
to fable-mongers we allow no slack

a damsel screams then the scene fades to black
and goblins laugh when elf-kind would not dare
each dragon bears a monkey on its back
to fable-mongers we allow no slack

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

the page turns

trivial time to think of when we'll meet
choices were made that set us on our way
into the distance sails the royal fleet

who has the choice exactly whom to greet
is king of flowers more than just a day
trivial time to think of when we'll meet

days of good weather still seem to us sweet
with minds that are not close to adult sway
into the distance sails the royal fleet

we skip the stones and then have to repeat
the one who laughs will let the water spray
trivial time to think of when we'll meet

with glorious colours we're now replete
yet have not good excuse to pause or stay
into the distance sails the royal fleet

we've left our morning faces on the street
look up and see the world is turning grey
trivial time to think of when we'll meet
into the distance sails the royal fleet

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

from emesa to ctesiphon

the mode of failure now seems all too clear
beyond the wall the masses cannot wait
a little rain may serve to cleanse the air

empires arise when golden monsters dare
lay out the claim they've been chosen by fate
the mode of failure now seems all too clear

a time of charity means words to spare
but they don't add to much upon a plate
a little rain may serve to cleanse the air

riding a mule a stallion or a mare
will do to survey the largest estate
the mode of failure now seems all too clear

our rulers worry about what to wear
to awe us when they enter through the gate
a little rain will serve to cleanse the air

our task in the new order is to stare
while dragons pass us by with heads held straight
the mode of failure now seems all too clear
a little rain will serve to cleanse the air

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

painful decisions

the choice to go or not to go's absurd
a road was mapped long before we were born
we must walk forward with a joyful word

nothing will happen that we won't have heard
this drizzle makes the whole place seem forlorn
the choice to go or not to go's absurd

we think the one who reads is just a nerd
but backs are bent and hands have long been worn
we must walk forward with a joyful word

the thunderclap tells us what has occurred
we hear a car alarm annoying horn
the choice to go or not to go's absurd

whatever we might do has been inferred
when we arrive we see they've reaped the corn
we must walk forward with a joyful word

this egg belongs to no sharp-seeing bird
a little corner from the world's been torn
the choice to go or not to go's absurd
we must walk forward with a joyful word

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

above i watch a starry dance

on each straight back so much has been bestowed
there's much to say but silence seems the best
around the hillside i see there's more road

the watchful rooster at midnight has crowed
but there's no dawn nor any place to rest
on each straight back so much has been bestowed

i've left behind the lush green lawns fresh mowed
to make this journey at my own behest
around the hillside i see there's more road

upon these mountains it has never snowed
still here in these green islands of the blest
on each straight back so much has been bestowed

the blinking lights are a quite open code
but knowing it is never for the best
around the hillside i see there's more road

so many miles before my own abode
my body's tired my mind still full of zest
on each straight back so much has been bestowed
around the hillside i see there's more road

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister

a simple illusion

the mind's a thing that we can easy shock
we see a world but do not know so much
for what we think is water may be rock

we have the key but cannot see the lock
the rabbit crouches in its tiny hutch
the mind's a thing that we can easy shock

we have to pause a moment and take stock
of all our yesterdays and matters such
for what we think is water may be rock

we place our hearts and thoughts in deepest hock
yet what we want remains out of our clutch
the mind's a thing that we can easy shock

not one's unique we all are in the flock
identity's not even a weak crutch
for what we think is water may be rock

you think it simple just to jeer and mock
but one false word shows that you're out of touch
the mind's a thing that we can easy shock
for what we think is water may be rock

(C)2007, Fragano Ledgister