What you’ll learn here is important.
Sit quietly, now, and let me explain.
I will show you how this works.
First, be perfect. No errors in diction,
in posture, attire, stride, or movement.
What you’ll learn here is important.
Second, be patient. Watch your grandfather,
mother, brother, daughter, push the rock uphill.
I will show you how this works.
The rock will slip at the top of the hill,
but see! This time it falls not quite so far.
What you’ll learn here is important.
The secret is blood and bone, piled so high,
the rock can slide no further. Progress!
I will show you how this works.
Your ankles’ skin will serve for bootstraps,
and one day, your flesh will shorten the day’s work.
What you’ll learn here is important.
I will show you how this works.
-C. G. Brown
9 April 2018
Reforged 