Pinocchio

I'll wager that you think you know

the tale of young Pinocchio,

a mar'ionette whose nose sprouts growth-

specifically when lies are told.

He's boist'rous, disobedient

and finds the cricket tedious;

a hammer flies- death hideous-

and conscience becomes vitreous.

The Land of Toys and idleness

draw him and his friend, Candlewick;

indulgence leads to ears that prick,

some hees and haws, and donkey kicks.

Escaping peril, he must flee;

the puppet swims straight out to sea,

where he becomes a whale's small meal-

and then both dad and son break free.

I've lied but once- the rest is truth.

So, now decide; it's up to you.

Which stanza does your youth dispute?

Is it two, or three, or four you choose?