Working Knowledge
A human being needs some pride in knowing Some thing that he himself can verify, If it’s no more than the proper time for hoeing And planting beans, or how to still the cry Of newborn things; he needs decisive acts That keep his knowledge clear-cut and unblurred, To hold him steady in the midst […]
Prescription for Pride
Carry defeat With a conquering air Les passers pity Lest strangers stare. Shelter sorrow In shimmering pride Les friends deplore Lest foes deride. But weep, weep well When you’re all alone Lest your heart congeal To a small stone. –Good Housekeeping, August 1946 –reprinted in Because It’s Here
Advice to Advisors
Never tell a soul in sorrow There are others hurt as he Never tell him sure tomorrow Shall supply his remedy. Say his grief’s unprecedented, Pat time’s healing to allay. Let him agonize, contented, While time steals the sting away. –Saturday Evening Post, September 1946