Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, CARNIVAL, by CALE YOUNG RICE


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

CARNIVAL, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: Earthis the merry-go-round of the devil
Last Line: And ride, friend, for none rides twice.
Subject(s): Carnivals; Devil; Laughter; Love; Satan; Mephistopheles; Lucifer; Beelzebub


Earth is the merry-go-round of the Devil,
Swung from his thumb with a mocking tune.
Mount your hobby, a good or an evil,
And ride, friend, in sun or moon.
Straddle your art, trade, or profession;
Ride to laughter, ride amid groans:
For a brief hour you hold possession,
Then you pay for it -- with your bones.
"All for Love" is the first tune played you;
How you lean to it in your seat!
"Gold Is Good, It Is Gold Has Made You"
Is the next -- it seems complete.
"Power Is the Goal the Gods Covet"
Sounds then, and you spur your speed.
"Art Is Life -- or the Best of It"
Breaks in and you chant the creed.
Earth is the merry-go-round of the Devil,
Mount your hobby -- and pay the price;
Choose the tune, a good or an evil,
And ride, friend, for none rides twice.





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