Sir Ian McKellen Quoting Shakespeare: Words for the Modern Day

 Actor Sir Ian McKellen recites an excerpt by William Shakespeare from the anonymous Elizabethan play Sir Thomas More.

The Justice of the Law of the LORD

 From the Good News Bible: Psalm 119:73-80, 137-144 (Good News Translation)

You created me, and you keep me safe; give me understanding, so that I may learn your laws. Those who honor you will be glad when they see me, because I trust in your promise. I know that your judgments are righteous, LORD, and that you punished me because you are faithful. Let your constant love comfort me, as you have promised me, your servant. Have mercy on me, and I will live because I take pleasure in your law. May the proud be ashamed for falsely accusing me; as for me, I will meditate on your instructions. May those who honor you come to me -- all those who know your commands. May I perfectly obey your commandments and be spared the shame of defeat.

You are righteous, LORD, and your laws are just. The rules that you have given are completely fair and right. My anger burns in me like a fire, because my enemies disregard your commands. How certain your promise is! How I love it! I am unimportant and despised, but I do not neglect your teachings. Your righteousness will last forever, and your law is always true. I am filled with trouble and anxiety, but your commandments bring me joy. Your instructions are always just; give me understanding, and I shall live.

Song: "Heavy Foot" by Mon Rovia

Watch this video of Liberian-American singer and songwriter Mon Rovia singing "Heavy Foot" from his debut album Bloodline, which is out now.

The Miser

When I go out, when I creep into those silent houses,

I steal newspapers.

An armload, no more than I can carry comfortably.

Sometimes they are already tied up

on the side porch or by the kitchen stove.

Nobody misses them.

They think each other or the maid

has carried them out to the street.

--from "The Miser" by Mona Van Duyn

You can read "The Miser" in its entirety by clicking on the link above.

 

Song: "Bloodline" by Mon Rovia

Bloodline

Bloodline, the debut album by Liberian-American singer and songwriter Mon Rovia, has just been released. Watch the vdeo below.