Elrod

When Elrod saw the mountain flame
Everyone called out loud his name.
In Ratton Town their knew their signs--
Some of them sobbed while others whined.

Some of them fell on their knees to pray.
Most of them wanted at least to obey.
They knew very well when the mountain burned,
They’d learn the lesson they hadn’t quite learned--

That fire in the heart can bring a cure,
Burning away whatever’s not pure.
But too much flame can make you long
To be in places you don’t belong.

But some held Elrod in great derision
They cared not a fig for Elrod’s vision
“Let the mountains burn.” They cried in glee
“We’ve fireproof hearts. It can’t hurt me."
And those are the ones who were burned to a cinder
And those that were left chose not to linger.

So if you are passing by Ratton town
Where hills are grey and the water brown,
Whisper a prayer for the poor and the lame,
And watch with Elrod, watch for the flame.

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