56

Travels through Oxford

I’m struck by this,

No one under 56

unless they’re dead.

From Anne to Yao

then to now

or rather

56 years hence.

I think there’s

something inexplicable

that the half-century

mark

Should mark

an ending

to the rational

discussion of ideas.

And still

some must live

that are not 56

but younger still.

And still think

in ideas

And write without the frills

of old age.

So that when

56

Oxford will hear,

and in a few pages

of dedication

probate their will.

5/31/09