The Poor Man's Sermon.

A poem written on the prompt of lyrics to The Sound of Silence by Simon and Garfunkel. Specific line: "The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls."

Eternal damnation is in store
for who does not donate more and more
to whose intentions are unknown,
but sits on the lord's mighty thrown. 

He, with the fancy suits and ties, 
and the seemingly lustful eyes.
Who laughs with the girls behind the pews, 
but claims Jesus as his muse. 

Who scolds the immoral with words of fury,
but he himself won’t face the jury. 
Who you bow down to, listen and believe,
but is this righteous or naïve?

See, the words of the prophets are written on the subway walls. 
It is not the big man, but the small.  
Who does not damn, but comprehend,
that faith is difficult for some men.

And who does not drive the fancy car, 
but always follows the northern star.
We must recognize that virtue lies not within possessions, 
but those who confess their indiscretions.

So, think twice before you predetermine, 
the falseness of a pauper’s sermon. 
Or before investing in the plan,
of a green eyed, close-fisted man.

Author's Note

I apologize in advanced if anyone is offended by this piece.

Reviews

[Hidden Poet]

This was great, keep up the good work hope to read more from you.

[Holly]

I agree with Charles in that no need to worry bout offending peeps :) It is a very deep poem pointing out the truths in this world regarding religion, I personally liked every bit of it! Welcome to this site, I am new a bit myself :) Hope you like it here and have loads more to post in the future :D I enjoy reading your work ^.^

[Charles]

i wouldn't worry about offending anyone. good art will sometimes put people off. i love a good critism of religion, wish more people did. welcome, kristie :)