Measure for Measure

He has committed
a terrible crime
and consequently
is doing time.

He was convicted,
given a sentence,
and now shows
signs of repentance.

It would appear
that it is his goal
to be released
and given parole.

But did the penalty
measure up to the felony
that was the cause
of a lot of agony?

Or is the case
of “an eye for an eye"
and it was the verdict
that went awry?

Now we are asked
to give our opinion
to enable the Court
to make a decision.

Should he stay in jail
or be set free?
We are between the devil
and the deep blue sea.

© Luigi Pagano 2018