The news is often a target for Quaker wrath. Jack Lacey from Rochester PM sent us these verses after a debate with a Friend on the state of the world.

Before Breakfast and After the News
The Daily Expert, the Daily Scare,
Do I let loose my diatribe - I hardly dare!
As I view the Daily Scandal laid bare
The world! Before I've washed or combed my hair!

The interview for the selling of a book
The newsreaders with their pretending look
The Minister not brought to truth or book
Driving his or her point by hook or crook.

Who is to deny the corporate lies - I despair?
As my pen turns acidly to Bush and Blair
That plausible, charming and murderous pair
And they not the worst the world doth share!

That leaves but the 'Thought for the Day'!
And who shall say that item should not stay?
That as she or he of pain and hope doth say
It comes - perhaps - that I too should pray?

We recommend a full English breakfast before listening to the news.

Labels: breakfast, lacey, poetry, quakers, rochester