Invited to retrace our steps, the lane
of memory unfurled before my eyes.
I read the words of he who would attain
the vision of his Lord. He testifies
with palms upheld, with capitals for nouns.
Engaging Reason to bring Faith to rule,
his college sneers are grown to pious frowns.
He learned a lot and nothing new since school.

The boy was tiresome, and this old guy
has stuck himself where air and thoughts don’t stir.
He cannot see the Deity, or why
the matter matters. Watch the man demur –
no he won’t read his history – he’s broke,
and can’t perceive the Form beyond the Smoke.