Pre-Vatican II
In Lascaux caverns far inside the dark
Where flambeaux flared the only light, a hand
Stroked holiness along the stone. The stark
Necessity for human minds to brand
Eternity with what they worship found
Fulfillment. Nearly physical this need
Of people, hearts and artists underground,
To spell while lacking words their rock-wall creed
Of unity, disunity with beasts.
Their artistry is yet to be surpassed,
Theology stroked strong by later priests;
This wonderment has not yet been outclassed.
Past shamans and the painters, all as one
With nature and the gods wait, not outdone.
~ Phillip Whidden