SOLDIER
Soldier, ask not why to war your banners go.
Ask not why the blood and pain
The twin hymns sung when battle winds blow.
Soldier, ask not of cruel commands
Given to you you whom leaders hold so low.
Nor ask the price of the shattered lands
Onto which your standards flow.
Soldier, ask not of tomorrow
Only for today you live.
Ask not the why of your comrade’s sorrow
Nor the suffering you must give.
Soldier, know this
But dare never ask why.
Your blood is an empty glory.
Your only destiny is to die.