In a Time of Famine

In a Time of Famine: Leaving the House of Bread (Book of Ruth)

Elkanah

“’Scuse me, Sir. You got any bread?

That’s what I said. That’s what I said.

’Scuse me, sir. I’ll soon be dead.

That’s what I said. I did.”

Naomi

“’Scuse me, Ma’am. You got any ja’am?

Try to stay calm. No need for alarm.

“’Scuse me, Ma’am. No food at the farm.

Need to stay warm, I do.”

Mahlon

“’Scuse me, Mate. I’m all of a state.

Look at me plate. Days since I ate.

Got any cheese that a poor man can grate?

Guess it’s me fate, I’d say.”

Chilion

“’Scuse me, Miss. Give us a kiss.

Got any fish? Oh, how delish.

Oh, how I wish for a fish on a dish.

That is my wish, it is.”

Elkanah

“’Scuse me, my Lord. Prices have soared.

Just can’t afford to not go abroad.

Food on the board. Stomachs are stored.

Can’t be ignored. We’re off.”

Maybe they thought bread can be bought,

Happiness sought, some comfort wrought?

But they’d been taught: trust in the Lord.

Maybe they ought… to have waited?