I read about a world gone by
I read of human frailty
I read about all passions spent
In deeds of human vanity
And all the words oft spoke by men
Stand in the way of courtesy
Lay down your hates, your fears, your arms
And rise above insanity

All the winter snows I've seen
And all my summer salad days
Have taught me one thing most of all
That boundless are man's vengeful ways
We raise our shields and battle join
That victory be ours to take
And though the cost be far too high
We count it well spent for our side

Forgive me if I take no stance
Nor stand with you among the throng
Forgive me if my voice be mute
While all around sing anthems long
And though the peace elusive be
A few of us will seek it still
That quiet land where war is not
And deny the gate to those who would kill