Ha Ha Ha Ha Hacking (Pathetic)
Modern poetry modern verse contemporary poetry contemporary verse modern poem contemporary poem
“A first-century Roman acquired an ancient statue of the comic poet Poseidippus (c. 316-250 BC). He had a local craftsman resculpt it into—or after—his [that Roman’s] face and form.” ~ Michael Schmidt, The First Poets, 40.
An ancient Roman had a portrait made,
A portrait from an ancient poet’s, far,
Far older than the Roman’s time. A blade
Carved marble from the poet’s statue. Star
Poseidippus of Greek comedic fame
Was chiselled at until the sculpture seemed
More like that Latin guy. The Roman’s aim
In such destruction is now lost. What he schemed
Was not erasing of the poet’s face,
But just replacing it with Roman nose
And chin. He didn’t think it a disgrace
To wipe out genius in this Roman pose.
..We do not know how much he paid, its cost.
….Still, brilliance can be hacked at but not lost.