6d
‘The parade will advance in ***** order.
By the centre, quick’…;
Thump, thump, thump; thump, thump, thump...;
Here they come the marching dead,
Those remembered, those who bled,
Those believing what was said,
Those who went to war.
Fifteen paces, halt. One-two.
Now the dead stand, facing you.
Solid phalanx, perfect square.
Shield wall, blank wall, they're all there.
These dead men before your eyes.
Let's just hope you've told no lies
To those who went to war.
Look, they're now presenting arms;
Weapons flash against the sky.
As you who watch but never die,
And never ask the reasons why
Applaud the dead, their drill, their show,
We'll stand, to straighten up our dress
And go for canapés - for drinkies,
With you in the Mess.
By the centre, quick’…;
Thump, thump, thump; thump, thump, thump...;
Here they come the marching dead,
Those remembered, those who bled,
Those believing what was said,
Those who went to war.
Fifteen paces, halt. One-two.
Now the dead stand, facing you.
Solid phalanx, perfect square.
Shield wall, blank wall, they're all there.
These dead men before your eyes.
Let's just hope you've told no lies
To those who went to war.
Look, they're now presenting arms;
Weapons flash against the sky.
As you who watch but never die,
And never ask the reasons why
Applaud the dead, their drill, their show,
We'll stand, to straighten up our dress
And go for canapés - for drinkies,
With you in the Mess.
Historically, noblesse oblige provided a spur for political viewpoints which were broadcast from the pulpit to persuade and influence public opinion. Now, of course, the Media (of whatever sort) thumps the lectern to persuade public opinion. But in the end who ever really cared, or cares?
