Classic Poem

Deep sunk in thought I wandered in a city dead — by fire,
Where walls, like blackened skeletons, in ruin rose on high
Enshrouded by the shadow of Destruction all things seemed,
Smothered beneath the sun that shone within a tomb-like sky.

Destruction with its breath of flame in triumph boasted high:
" Thus in one day, one moment, I destroy the pride and grace
Of works that Man has taken years to build upon the earth;
And low he lies before me when I show him my stern face! "

But Man, of mighty will power, when he heard this haughty boast,
Raised up his sorrow-laden head, and like a giant cried:
" Destruction, you are longing for my downfall and defeat,
But you are all in error, you are blinded by your pride!

" Creating, still creating, I shall combat you for aye.
You may destroy, but I shall build for evermore with joy,
Till Godhood shall awake in me, and when that day shall dawn
Then even grim Destruction itself I shall destroy! "