By: Lauren Farrington

Section 13 PBA;

APWH; Sec05

I am Prester JohnMyth created by yeSaying I have won

Please, tell of my gallantry!

The Christian myth begunIn a letter circa twelfth century

Saying, I, Prester John, Was a powerful monarch, supposedly

Why haven’t I contacted you?Because of the Muslim Conquest.You say it cut me off from you--

Or I would’ve asked you to be my guest

You looked for me, howeverWith only a letter to guide you.

Was I in Asia or Africa?Neither; but, but both you traveled through

My kingdom was largeIn the European imagination.

In real life, my chargeWas quite an exaggeration.

Before the Mongols reached Europe, Rumors turned Khan into John.

John, an ally, would turn upTo fight the Muslim enemy, strong.

Then, Mongol attack onMuslim Empire confirmed the myth

That the Khan was the great John And the Muslims John would do away with

You thought that I had won Against the mighty Muslims

Yet, my prowess was in my con,Not in my attacks against them.

A surprise! It was whenJohn was Khan. For, alas,

Great Khan was no friend,Attacking Russia showed you this.

Yet, You were confused. Clearly, Khan was not John.

For, Khan left Christians bruised.Yet, the surprise, for a while, wouldn’t be gone.

For, the Mongols were strongThey attacked Russia quickly

Capturing Christian villages with great brawn.Then it settled: Mongols, a new enemy

I didn’t mean to betray youBut, I was simply a myth.

I was simply created by you.Power you created me with.

Maybe if you focused less of explorationIn the intent to find me.

You’d have more knowledge, then.You’d be more worldly.

Then you’d be prepared.To fight the Mongol threat.

And then you would’ve faredAgainst ally turned foe, yet.

I am Prester JohnMyth created by yeSaying I have won

Please, tell of my gallantry!