Whatever Is

W
Whatever is we only know
As in our minds we find it so;
No staring fact is half so clear
As one dim, preconceived idea --
No matter how the fact may glow.

Vainly may truth her trumpet blow
To stir our minds; like heavy dough
They stick to what they think — won’t hear
Whatever is.

Our ancient myths in solid row
Stand up — we simply have to go
And choke each fiction old and dear
Before the modest facts appear;
Then we may grasp, reluctant, slow,
Whatever is.

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