One weapon I would keep
From the world's scrapheap
Of longbows and swords,
Of bayonets and guns—
One weapon for my soul's defense.

Leave me the sword of truth,
Swift and sharp and strong
To pierce the subtle lie
In militant word and song—
One weapon for this land's defense.

Throw all else on the scrapheap.
Only one weapon let us keep.

One weapon I would keep
From the world's scrapheap
Of longbows and swords,
Of bayonets and guns—
One weapon for my soul's defense.

Leave me the sword of truth,
Swift and sharp and strong
To pierce the subtle lie
In militant word and song—
One weapon for this land's defense.

Throw all else on the scrapheap.
Only one weapon let us keep.