For John Carlson (another patient chemistry teacher)
I’ve seen it writ: historical tomes
Which detail Chemists’ rise to grace
In early days, they blew up homes,
While filling Periodic Table’s space.
In defense of spousal lament
(O’er missing gables, roofs and walls,
Both home and marriage being rent
By Chemists answering Destiny’s call)
Laboratories were placed atop
The houses where quaking spouses dwelt
To lessen stress on marriage and mate
When Chemical Results were felt.
Today we feel custom’s result;
We sit atop this hallowed hall
By classes end we do exult
Denied the mercury’s steady fall.
While, in response to ancient fears
We sit and bake, and thus atone
For early attempts to combine careers
Of Chemistry and Remodeling Homes.
Stephen Bolles
All rights reserved
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