A Simple Solution

by Jareth Valentine

Many, many years ago,

A mighty war was fought

between the armies Black and White

A most unpleasant lot.

"Those filthy Whites think they can win!"

The Black commander said.

"But White's an evil color!

Very soon they'll all be dead!"

Alas, the very same was said

About the wicked Blacks.

"They lie! They cheat! They steal and kill!

They'll stab us in the backs!"

The Blacks and Whites fought day and night.

The fearsome war went on.

Those in the middle were upset.

Their crops and homes were gone.

Finally, someone had enough.

He snuck into the camps

After all had gone to bed

And turned out all the lamps.

When daylight came, the soldiers woke

And what a novel sight!

They'd all been painted purple

And not one knew whom to fight.