[Jacopone da Todi, Que farai, Pier dal Morrone?, “Laude”, LXXIV, 13th century.]
What now, Pier da Morrone?
This is the test.
Now we'll see what comes
Of all those meditations in your hermit's cell.
Disappoint those who have placed their hopes in you,
And they'll rain curses on your head.
The fame of your sanctity rises high and spreads far afield;
Tarnish it at this point, in the closing years,
And think of the scandal you will give to the good!
Their eyes turn to you as truly
As an arrow speeds toward its target.
Do not short-weight them.
This is the test: we'll see if you're gold, iron, or copper,
Whether your yarn be coarse wool or fine.
The papal court is a crucible
In which the gold is separated from the dross;
Should too much copper be mixed with the gold,
The whole will be reduced to coal and ashes.
Should you take delight in your power,
That would be the worst, the most infectious of ills.
In exchange for this morsel,
You would lose God, be damned.
I wept for you when you announced, "I accept."
Oh, the yoke you placed around your neck,
A yoke that condemns you
To an unremitting struggle!
In the midst of a storm the brave standard-bearer
Finds the strength to hold his regiment's banner high.
You have accepted the most awesome of offices:
Its difficulties and responsibilities
Are no less awesome. Remember,
All of your comrades are not of one heart.
