Poem: Pauline Hanson

December 4, 1996
Issue 

Pauline Hanson

Ignorance profound
clichés abound
pitiful renown
unfunny clown.
Most who are as unwise as you
seem clever by being mute,
but that doesn't suit
and so you flail
against those who fail
to be what it is you'd like to become.
So without knowledge
armed only with prejudice
you expose your ignorance.
Your mother's child the only one in step
those you oppose totally out of time
their minds befuddled by learning or experience
their fists clenched and mouths closed.
Your teeth ajar, and poison seeping
from your lips
lost rights — a scar, and children weeping
at your quips.
It doesn't matter whom you offend
there is no way they could be your friend;
besides they're powerless —
so there is no redress.
Discomfort yes —
but surely not distress.
John Tomlinson

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