In the quiet between the wars

Lies a suspicious unease

Generating desperate attempts

At placating hostile forces.

Concealing inward-facing, jingoistic feelings.

"We must, above all, be politically correct

In our struggle for international probity."

Love thy neighbour in public

Whilst plotting his downfall behind his back.

Steely faces wearing civil servant ties

And civil servant suits and civil servant

Macs – oh how they hate the rain:

It spoils their carefully constructed image,

As they seek to control,

In the quiet, between the wars.