Throw meat to the dogs
and maybe they’ll fight.
Give juice to the drunks
and perhaps they’ll outdrink themselves.

Lest the crows grow fat
put up more scarecrows.
To fall in love
find a cosy corner.

Throw seeds in the earth
and perhaps the corn will sprout.
OK, I’ll be obedient,
but give me my freedom!

They gave tattered meat to the dogs
and they did not fight.
They gave vodka to the drunks
and they refused it.

People scare the crows
and the carrion crows have no fear.
Couples get together
when they should be parting.

They watered the land
and lo there were no ears of corn.
Yesterday they gave me my freedom.
What will I do with it?