Experience

How can a man ’til he’s experienced death
Give his views on the philosophy of life?
And how can he tell of the meaning of wealth
Until he has lived in a world of strife?

How can he say just what happiness is
When he’s never felt depressed?
Or speak of love’s ways to an amateur world
Until hatred has been his quest?

How can he look to the sky for a friend
While millions on earth stand alone?
And how can he eat of the fruits that are picked
By those who stay starved to the bone?

Is it a falsity painted in that smile on his face,
Or is he really pleased with this state of affairs?
Will his eyes be opened to what’s going on
Or does he even care?

1974,04,28