290. bandits at one o'clock
they descend in formation
strafing the streets
& pedestrianized precincts
with crotchets & quavers
armed with accordions
and mandolins
and three-day stubble
they lay down suppressing fire
and we return the favour
with shrapnel and paper
for we are the Lords
of these Sceptred Isles
masters of all we survey.