Classic Poem

Tell me, who mayst thou be,
who goest so poorly shod?
Religion. I am
that well-known child of God
Why is thy garment woven
of such paltry wool?
Because I hold all riches
poor and pitiful.
What book is that thou bearest?
God my father's law,
Wherein his will reveals
its mystery and awe.
And why with naked flanks?
An unprotected breast
Becomes me who desires
white doctrine for my vest
Ah, kindliness,
why dost thou halt upon that cross?
Because 'tis easier to my limbs
than tender moss.
Unto what end
art though provided with those wings?
I teach mankind
to soar away from earthly things
Why is thy form so radiant
with such glorious light?
I ward from saintly souls
the blackness of the night
Why with this bit and bridle?
With it, in constraint
Of gentle fear, I curb
the fervour of the saint.
And wherefore vanquished lies
pale trampled death beneath
Thy feet?
Because I am none else than death