Ancient Sisters Wisdom came with subtle speech and Folly came with lies Each with scenes of splendor in the mirrors of their eyes, Wisdom's eyes were soft and green Folly's sharp and blue Wisdom spoke in words serene While Folly screamed at you. Both had taken human form, each unto her preference Folly fast and quick to mock, Wisdom slow and reverent, Each went out into the Earth Each to make a stand Folly went for her own mirth Wisdom went for Man. Folly came into the homes and tents of ancient men Bringing war and wine to push them out of ancient Eden, Thus Man went out of Eden fair To sweat and then to die Yet Folly's wiles had them ensnared Thus Man forgot to cry. So Wisdom worked her subtle tongue to bring Man sweet relief Bringing thought and hope to Man, to kindle their belief And Wisdom taught her ways to some Whom Man then labeled Sages Who sung of times when Man could run Throughout the passing ages. Yet Folly's flock grew ever on, for her's was sweet and loud They preached the Gospel of Self aloud to every gathered crowd So Mankind grew, and then it slew Itself, in cruel disaster For Folly taught, so Mankind knew, That each was their own master. And Wisdom walked among the ruins of burned and battered towns And saw her ancient sister there, among the bloody mounds And Wisdom sadly walked away While Folly laughed and twirled For Man itself had ceased to be Upon this empty world.