Our Gilbertian Treasurer

Those readers not inhibited by a private school education will know of the glorious humour and melody which is Gilbert and Sullivan. These guys had a talent for blending words and music which has never been surpassed.

W. S. Gilbert

Take this example from The Mikado:-

Do you know the tune? - a brisk, lilting waltz.

Nanki-Poo

A wandering minstrel I —
A thing of shreds and patches,
Of ballads, songs and snatches,
And dreamy lullaby!
My catalogue is long,
Through every passion ranging,
And to your humours changing
I tune my supple song!
I tune my supple song!

How might they have handled the comic opera which is today's New Zealand Labour government?

Mikey-Poo

A squandering wastrel I —
A thing of bribes and taxes,
Of socialistic spending,
And scheming double lies!
My surpluses are large,
Through every sector gouging,
And for my next election,
I give a subtle gong!
I give a subtle gong!