I have given up works of art
Many times.
Magically curious creations
Always tempted by windows:
People fondling them with attention /
And their own curiosity -
Drawn to my workmanship
And in wonder that
Something so fascinating
Could have been drawn from a tree.

Of course, loosed from its training strings,
The toy is ready to be a real boy, or girl,
Convinced that there is something more
Than what it has learned;
And in its immaturity
It becomes human,
Seeking perfection in their
Imperfection;

And when they fall,
Even puppets lie.

June 12, 2004