Oh, look and be astonished
That a hat like I can speak!
T'was not by chance I came alive,
T'was for when the Founders were weak.
Imagine cheery old Hufflepuff
as she neared ninty three.
How could she possibly choose her lot?
The Founders had a plan you see!
Brave Gryfindor took me off his head
and they concocted a daring plot.
They would put some brains into me
to do what they ought.

And so when the four had passed away,
They left me to do this task:
Of sorting the new ickle firsties
By character, mind and class.
Those who show courage and chivalry
they'd best go to Gryffindor.
As for those with minds sharp like whips
To wize Ravenclaw.
Hufflepuff will take you all
if you're loyal, hardworking and just.
Or if you're like ambitious Slytherin
You know you'll do what you must.

But whatever house you're destined for
Listen to what I say,
Whether through drought or flood
Together we must stay!
We fought off the ghastly MerKing
by sheer will and determination,
So band together like the Hogwarts Four
For the coming examination.

Fret not my little ones,
You're test is yet to come
Now slip me onto your head
Come, don't look so glum!
I am the Hogwarts Sorting Hat
I was created to sort you and you
So take a chance, put me on
then you'll be sorted too!

~Lari

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