Eugène Pottier

“ We must ourselves decide our duty,
We must decide, and do it well.
(Chorus)
The law oppresses us and tricks us,
wage slavery drains the workers’ blood;
The rich are free from obligations,
The laws the poor delude. ”

“ We peasants, artisans, and others Enrolled among the sons of toil, Let’s claim the earth henceforth for brothers, Drive the indolent from the soil! On our Flesh too Long has fed the Raven; We’ve too long been the vulture’s prey. ”

“ No faith have we in prince or peer. Our own right hand the chains must shiver: Chains of hatred, greed and fear. E’er the thieves will out with their booty [give up their booty] And give to all a happier lot. ”