Analysis of The New Decalogue

Have but one God: thy knees were sore
     If bent in prayer to three or four.

Adore no images save those
     The coinage of thy country shows.

Take not the Name in vain. Direct
     Thy swearing unto some effect.

Thy hand from Sunday work be held--
     Work not at all unless compelled.

Honor thy parents, and perchance
   Their wills thy fortunes may advance.

Kill not--death liberates thy foe
   From persecution's constant woe.

Kiss not thy neighbor's wife. Of course
   There's no objection to divorce.

To steal were folly, for 'tis plain
   In cheating there is greater pain.

Bear not false witness. Shake your head
   And say that you have 'heard it said.'

Who stays to covet ne'er will catch
   An opportunity to snatch.