Self Convicted For Friend Charles Taylor Poem by ivor or ivor.e hogg

The Mandarin inscrutable
is clad in robes of rich brocade.
There before him on the table
a dagger with a bloodstained blade.

As magistrate he must decide
by weighing up he evidence.
Which suspect has or has not lied.
Pronounce on guilt and innocence.

There’s no appeal his word is law.
He wields supreme authority
and he has seen it all before.
Considers it objectively.

He can read thoughts or so it seems
the guilty man believes this true.
Caught up in his own twisted schemes
as guilty men are wont to do.

Betrays himself and leaves no doubt
about his guilt, it’s plain to see.
The mandarin says take him out
execute him immediately
.
In this way was justice served
The mandarin inscrutable
said little but close observed
which man was most uncomfortable.

He might be wrong it’s possible.
His knowledge of psychology
makes it highly improbable.
That’s why he holds authority.

3-Jun-08

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