1 Time and Space decreed his lot, But little Man was quick to note: When Time and Space said Man might not, Bravely he answered, “Nay! I mote.” 2 I looked on old New England. Time and Space stood fast. Men built altars to Distance At every mile they passed. 3 Yet sleek with oil, a Force was hid Making mock of all they did, Ready at the appointed hour To yield up to Prometheus The secular and well-drilled Power The Gods secreted thus. 4 And over high Wantastiquet Emulous my lightnings ran, Unregarded but afret, To fall in with my plan. 5 I beheld two ministries, One of air and one of earth— At a thought I married these, And my New Age came to birth! 6 For rarely my purpose errs Though oft it seems to pause, And rods and cylinders Obey my planets’ laws. 7 Oil I drew from the well, And Franklin’s spark from its blue; Time and Distance fell, And Man went forth anew. 8 On the prairie and in the street So long as my chariots roll I bind wings to Adam’s feet, And, presently, to his soul!
Choose another poem