CHINA: Bloodsucking Rice Worms

Ordinarily, Shanghai's "Heavenly Voice" radio station has no more harmless or popular broadcaster than its funnyman, Hsiao Kuai-leh (Little Happiness). But about a fortnight ago, as the price of rice continued its upward hike, a big unhappiness fell upon Little Happiness. Into Heavenly Voice's microphone he sang a song entitled The Bloodsucking Rice Worms. It ran like this:

The poor are sallow as a female rat;

They gnaw roots and husks.

Rice merchants pay no heed—their

conscience is black—

They grab and hoard.

They are rich rice worms who fill their

bellies, line their pockets, build new

houses, buy fine cars, keep concubines.

The response was terrific....

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