I’ve been to Bal-Hoola
don’t ask me to say
would you want to go there?
then be on your way

I’ve been to Bal-Hoola
don’t ask me to say
what does a lad learn there?
will make a man gray

I’ve been to Bal-Hoola
how long is the road?
I’ve warned you before
your question’s a goad

I’ve been to Bal-Hoola
there’s mercy there
does that surprise you
oh, you with such flair?

I’ve been to Bal-Hoola
their questions are strong
how do we gain wisdom?
by seeing we’re wrong

I’ve been to Bal-Hoola
and I’ve said my piece
you can’t go to Bal-Hoola
without signing the lease

I’ve returned to Bal-Hoola
that says it all
there’s no true travel
short of heeding the call

From Allan Cox’s collection, “In the Middle of Time.”

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