The Waking Of The Lions

I’ve heard it said  
that English men are lions
what pride I see
is hidden beneath the mask  
 
One pleaded “please  
won’t you wake from slumber”  
but sleeping loins like dogs  
are said be best left  
well alone  
 
And as you doze  
on yesterday’s misgivings  
the rats and snakes  
nibble at your paws  
 
Although now sweet dreams,  
become real nightmares  
if you don’t rise
and let them hear your raw  
 
Is there fire in that belly  
or have your bowels turned to jelly  
will you snooze forever more  
 
Every English man amongst you  
white and black Islam or Jew  
if you’re lions won’t you wake from slumber  
in unvanquishable number  
Wake up now and take back the freedom  
that by rights is yours