Is this a Fast, to keepThe larder lean?And cleanFrom fat of veals and sheep?Is it to quit the dishOf flesh, yet stillTo fillThe platter high with fish?Is it to fast an hour,Or ragg'd to go,Or showA down-cast look and sour?No: 'tis a Fast to doleThy sheaf of wheatAnd meatUnto the hungry soul,It is to fast from strifeAnd old debate,And hate;To circumcise thy life.To show a heart grief-rent;To starve thy sin,Not bin;And that's to keep thy Lent.(HT: John Garvey)
