Tuning: Standard (E A D G B E) Verse 1: G C G Oh say, what is truth? ’Tis the fairest gem C D That the riches of worlds can produce, G C G And priceless the value of truth will be when C D The proud monarch’s costliest diadem G D G Is counted but dross and refuse. Verse 2: G C G Yes, say, what is truth? ’Tis the brightest prize C D To which mortals or Gods can aspire. G C G Go search in the depths where it glittering lies, C D Or ascend in pursuit to the loftiest skies: G D G ’Tis an aim for the noblest desire.
Verse 3: G C G The sceptre may fall from the despot’s grasp C D When with winds of stern justice he copes. G C G But the pillar of truth will endure to the last, C D And its firm-rooted bulwarks outstand the rude blast G D G And the wreck of the fell tyrant’s hopes. Verse 4: G C G Then say, what is truth? ’Tis the last and the first, C D For the limits of time it steps o’er. G C G Tho the heavens depart and the earth’s fountains burst, C D Truth, the sum of existence, will weather the worst, G D G Eternal, unchanged, evermore.
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