Indulgences - Count Zero

And Li’l John says, «Please, Father, tell the Lord that I’m regretful for my

Sins.»

And as the bells peal, he begins to drain his pockets into bins

Says, as he makes his offerings, «As soon as Coin in Coffer rings

Dear Mothers Soul to Heaven springs!»

He interjects, «Please, if I may, take just a moment here to say

I’m so inspired by the way Our Lord has promised You more Land!

Your fine Cathedrals stand so grand!

Your Holy Jewels glow on Your Hand!

And unless,» he reflects, as his good conscience squirms

«I request to ingest a steady Diet of Worms

I had best do my best to better come to terms with Your Indulgences.»

And dull John says, «will the owner of a Ford who left their lights on

Could you please go turn them off?»

You blink and freeze, and in the pew you check your keys because you up and plum

Forgot just which of your five cars you brought… Oh, good, that’s not yours

in the lot

And you get on your knees and pray that your new hair dye hides the gray and

That your stocks perform okay

You don’t come here to question truth.

You just need this confession booth

To relive your low-pressure youth

Ask the priest where he got the fabric for his vestment

Now he knows you think God is just a smart investment

So your soul is all flawed.

Surprise!

Another testament to your indulgences