Thinking of justice I was reminded of the Bob Dylan sone about how a weathy young man killed someone and was given a trifling sentence. The song reflects a view that sentences must show a community's revulsion to crime -- I am not sure I agree but it's a powerful piece. Here's the close:
In the courtroom of honor, the judge pounded his gavel
To show that all's equal and that the courts are on the level
And that the strings in the books ain't pulled and persuaded
And that even the nobles get properly handled
Once that the cops have chased after and caught 'em
And that the ladder of law has no top and no bottom,
Stared at the person who killed for no reason
Who just happened to be feelin' that way without warnin'.
And he spoke through his cloak, most deep and distinguished,
And handed out strongly, for penalty and repentance,
William Zanzinger with a six-month sentence.
Oh, but you who philosophize disgrace and criticize all fears,
Bury the rag deep in your face
For now's the time for your tears.
Listen to part of the sing here: http://www.bobdylan.com/#/songs/lonesome-death-hattie-carroll
No comments:
Post a Comment