MOLOKOV:
We wish, no, must, make our disgust
For this abuse perfectly clear
We’re here for chess —
Are the U.S.?
If so, why foul the atmosphere?
FLORENCE:
I must protest — our delegation
Has a host of valid points to raise.
ARBITER:
It’s not just black and white
If I may coin a phrase
As any neutral would attest.
FLORENCE:
Though we concede
The fact your masters bend the rules is maybe not your fault
If they withdraw their psychological assault
Then under protest he’ll proceed.
MOLOKOV:
If your man’s so sweet
Then why his fighting talk?
If he says we cheat
Then why on earth did he go take a walk?
FLORENCE:
I am not surprised he wanted fresher air
Once he realized there was no hope
Of your guys playing fair.
FLORENCE & ANATOLY:
How sad
To see
MOLOKOV & ARBITER:
It’s very sad to see
The ancient and distinguished game that used to be
ALL:
A model of decorum and tranquility
Become like any other sport
A battleground for rival ideologies
To slug it out with glee.
ANATOLY:
I would say with regard to
Him it is hard to
Rebut
Ever-growing suspicions
My opposition’s
A nut.
FLORENCE:
I would have said
You’d understand the strain and pressure getting where he’s got
For then you’d simply call him highly strung and not
Imply that he was off his head.
ANATOLY:
But how on earth can someone even
Half as civilized and nice as you
Be part of such a self-destructive
Point of view?
I hope he pays you
What you’re worth.
ARBITER:
I call this tune
No one’s immune to my power
Once in that hall.
MOLOKOV:
In that case
I must ask you
Why you now
Preside over a brawl.
FLORENCE:
I’m not getting rich
My only interest
Is in something which
Gives me the chance
Of working with the best.
ANATOLY:
I can only say
I hope your dream comes true
Till that far-off day
I hope you cope
With helping number two.
FLORENCE & ANATOLY:
How sad
To see
MOLOKOV & ARBITER:
It’s very sad to see
The ancient and distinguished game that used to be
ALL:
A model of decorum and tranquility
Become like any other sport
A battleground for rival ideologies
To slug it out with glee.