A Marxist Cat

Lullaby for the Cat
by Elizabeth Bishop (1911-1979)

Minnow go to sleep and dream,
Close your great big eyes:
Round your bed Events prepare
The pleasentest surprise.

Darling Minnow, drop that frown,
Just cooperate.
Not a kitten shall be drowned
In the Marxist State.

Joy and Love will both be yours,
Minnow, don’t be glum.
Happy days are coming soon –
Sleep, and let them come . . .