If the ancient Greeks knew what they had caused
Celebrating the human form and athletics
They would have reserved all the television rights
And dispensed with the perfection of aesthetics
Had they known that athletes were stars
With incomes greater than they could dream
Maybe then they would have merchandised their kids
For today we market everything else it would seem
From graceful shapes and muscular bodies
The focus has changed to sponsors and brands
Where once people went to see the Games
Now attendees go to be seen in the stands
Athletes vie to get invited to go
Though their quest for gold is really wealth
They hide their true interest in being patriotic
Knowing that victory creates riches for themself
So as the nations parade their athletic finest
Flags waving as they enter the Olympic game
The athletes should pause and thank the Greeks
For without them sports will never be the same
