” and I will stand on earth in selfish might
And shoot a meteor from its earth-bound flight.
I’ll keep the towers of each wealthy street
As free from danger as their climb is right.

“Vain? I once levered steel right through the sky
And clasped the promise of a pagan day.
I saw the scattered jewels below me shine
Brighter than stars above, and knew the beauty
Of naked thought in hero-stance of truth.

Then flew to my lips surge of praising song,
And with the plane’s motor grew mine more strong.
Our motor, our lasting flight, merged, soared, curled.
We landed, taxied; doors opened, winds swirled,
And then I saw the greatest city in the world.

And now I sing much prouder of man complete
When carved with joy I walk each tow’ring street.
And now I speak out loud for selfish kind,
‘Man is good, life his all, sure his mind!’
And I will stand on earth in selfish might
And shoot a meteor from its earth-bound flight.”