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To the hedonists of intellect

"When any opinion leads to absurdity, it is certainly false; but it is not certain that an opinion is false because it is of dangerous consequence." — (David Hume, Treat. of Hum. Nature, IV.)

by
Anthony M. Ludovici

The New English Weekly 6, 1934–35, p. 221


  The glacier calls and far away
Stands Knowledge gazing in the sun.
Don't stop to meditate or pray!
The day holds triumph to be won.

Come out! Come out! The sky is bright!
Truth glistens in each blade of grass.
It is for youth and strength to fight
Their way across yon narrow path.

What's that? — Your grate is also bright?
And warmer than the wintry sun?
Your coal and wood flames, too, give light,
And even when the day is done?

Besides, I see, they're safe and sound,
And do not kill if you should slip.
At most some ash drops to the ground
Or soils your boot's smooth-polished tip?

But safety, warmth and comfort, Friend,
Are not the Truth, or am I wrong?
You smile content, and wish to end?
Our talk, you think, has lasted long?

So be it then! And now farewell!
I hear the glacier's call to youth.
When I am gone, though, do not tell
The World that Comfort is the Truth.

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First Poem