R. W. Emerson.
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."
I looked on old New England. Time and Space stood fast. Men built altars to Distance At every mile they passed.
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.
And over high Wantastiquet
Emulous my lightnings ran, Unregarded but afret, To fall in with my plan.
I beheld two ministries, One of air and one of earth -- At a thought I married these, And my New Age came to birth!
For rarely my purpose errs
Though oft it seems to pause, And rods and cylinders Obey my planets' laws.
Oil I drew from the well, And Franklin's spark from its blue; Time and Distance fell, And Man went forth anew.
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!