Background: The original song (linked) was written by one of Tom's squires praising his prowess on the battlefield. At that particular Pennsic, the Crown had forbidden any songs or revelry which disparaged either side. A Knight Errant who shall not be named piped up and said, "but wait, what about songs about aggressively petting Tygers with sticks?" The Crown agreed as long as it's in the form of a song or poem. The Knight Errant gave his squire a mission to do such a thing, and thus it came into existence. I took inspiration from it, and voila! Here we are.
Written in July 2017
There is a rule in Northshield || when you've been here a while,
For continuous authorization* || in any fighting style.
We, Konrad and Abhlinn, || know one who fits this mold:
It's Tom Tinntinnabulum's Award for Getting Old!
Up from the battlefield || on this Northshield day,
Petting all the squires || in tourney or melee.
They love this Griffin of Northshield, || so kind and venerable!
It's Tom Tinntinnabulum's Award for Getting Old!
Some griffins may retire, || relax in their estate.
Others find a pasture || to be calm and sedate.
But Tom will keep on fighting || be it people or microbes...
It's Tom Tinntinnabulum's Award for Getting OOOOOOLLLLDDDDDD!**
* At the time the song was written, the law said "continuous authorization," instead of "continuous participation," which is reflected in the lyrics.
** Tom has gotten flesh eating bacteria more times than anyone I've ever met. He's conquered it successfully each time, but yikes. No more microbes for you, Tom!
Just press play!
Tune and lyrics based on the song "Tom Tinntinnabulum's Tiger Petting Pole." I believe it was written by one of Tom's squires.