To the sons of Ramgaroo Laughter is taboo A funny tale will make them wail: “We're not amused, boo — hoo!” They live in constant fear Of chuckles far and near And start and bound at every sound That brings a breath of cheer. Their peace of mind forfeiting They sit and keep repeating: 'We believe in only grieving; Happiness is fleeting.' They shun the summer breeze That whispers through the trees For fear the stir of leaf and bur Their funny bones should tease. They keep a wary eye On the autumn sky For signs of mirth above the earth In foaming cumuli. The darkness of the night Brings them no respite As fireflies extemporise Their dances of delight. Those of you who are jolly And feel to woe is folly Must not refuse the Ramgaroos Their right to melancholy. The Ramgaroosian lair Bereft of sun and air Is doomed to be a monastery Of permanent despair.
