In the land of the Germans, stout and hearty,
The labour market stands firm, for naught doth it tarry.
But a whisper of struggle, it doth loudly carry,
Like a barrel of ale, skimmed yet never left empty.

Next, in the kingdom of electronic dreams,
Microsoft unbundles, due to regulatory schemes.
'Tis like serving ye olde ale in separate streams,
Addressing concerns, in thine EU themes.

Lo, the oil in Chine doth lower stride,
Factory activity slowing, its strength resides.
Yet like an ale-house after eventide,
Still propped up by U.S. stocks, where hunger hides.

by Brother Arnulfus

a centaur