Yes, I will stand on earth in selfish might
And blast a missile from its New York sight.
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.
My purpose—first night-time flight—swept, soared, curled.
I landed, taxied, stepped out, 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 towering 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 blast a missile from its New York sight.