no distant music

we do not ever know the proper cause
of all the pains and sorrows that we face
the whole thing is not due to higher laws

the hungry tiger shows its shining claws
signs of great power and of a fiery grace
we do not ever know the proper cause

the noise continues without any pause
each is confined to a restricted space
the whole thing is not due to higher laws

spring will refresh us with its rains and thaws
but autumn plods on at a steady pace
we do not ever know the proper cause

one who would lead us never hems and haws
and shows us clear concern in smiling face
the whole thing is not due to higher laws

we are not made to bow before applause
as creatures of the fearful human race
we do not ever know the proper cause
the whole thing is not due to higher laws