Where Parochialism Is Rife Poem by Francis Duggan

I've never had a criminal conviction and I uphold the law
And on what sort of person you think I am your own conclusion draw
You may not even like me and that too suits me fine
For that is your business and your business is not mine
To have lived here all of your life is your claim to renown
And you are well known and respected in the quiet old country town
Where you were born and raised you will live out your life
In a place where Parochialism is and has always been rife
And none more parochial than you 'twould appear
You do not toast outsiders in whiskey and beer
From you I won't try for to lure your woman away
And the respect you are due to you I'll gladly pay
And if you do not trust me that too is okay
Since you have not grown wiser you've only grown gray