The Prayer of FrançoisVillon

By: Gabriela Yareliz

Lyrics and music by B. Okudzhava

As long as the world’s still turning,

As long as the air’s still sweet, Lord, won’t you give to all of us

Whatever it is we need.

Give a mind to the wise one,

A shield to the enemy,

Give some gold to the happy man,

And don’t forget about me.

As long as the world’s still turning, Lord, if it be your will,

Give to the hungry for power

A kingdom to rule his fill.

Give some rest to the generous

Under a shady tree,

Wash the stain from the face of Cain,

And don’t forget about me.

I know that your powers are wondrous,

I believe that your ways are wise,

The way that a fallen soldier

Believes he’s in paradise,

The way every breathing being

Believes in your gentle word,

The way, in our utter oblivion,

We keep on believing, oh Lord.

My all-wise, my all-merciful,

My sweet Lord of sea-green eyes,

As long as the world’s still turning

To its eternal surprise,

As long as it still has plenty of Fire and destiny,

Give a little to everyone,

And don’t forget about me.

Interview with Regina Spektor from NPR here.

Published by Gabriela Yareliz

Gabriela is a writer, editor and attorney. She loves the art of storytelling, and she is based in NYC.

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