Serious people belittle and chaff
At those who try to persuade with a laugh.
When we are working to make people free,
We must take big issues seriously.
But sometimes humor allows us to say
How you could view things a different way.
Showing that nonsense is nonsense can work.
That was the method of P. J. O’Rourke.

Some call for freedom by sounding the bell,
Warning us that we are headed for Hell.
They point at people unjustly oppressed,
Asking us why we are not more distressed.
They touch the conscience, and passions they raise,
Answered with fierce opposition and praise,
Yet some will say, “It’s not such a big deal,
Why get worked up over fears that aren’t real?”

Others appeal to the rational mind,
With explanations precise and refined,
Showing how cause has to lead to effect,
Proving with evidence that they’re correct.
They earn great praise, but it’s just from the few
Who take the time to judge if it’s all true.
Someday their influence may be profound,
If only when we’re no longer around.

Some aim for freedom by working inside.
Step by small step they hope they’ll turn the tide.
Speaking at meetings and courting the vote,
Changing the heading as they rock the boat.
But others have long been playing the game,
Keeping the power to which they lay claim.
Working from inside may offer some hope,
But the old guard is well able to cope.

You worked for freedom by making us smile,
Making a serious point all the while.
Looking firsthand into dangerous lands,
Finding absurdity in their commands.
Maybe you weren’t always deep and profound,
But humor can bring a skeptic around.
Even some doubters will grant this is true:
P. J. O’Rourke, we will always miss you.