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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


THE COLLEGE ATHLETE by WALLACE RICE

First Line: STATUE-LIKE STANDETH HE FORTH, QUICK, ELATE
Last Line: SUCH AS HATH GIVEN MARTYRS MORTAL BIRTH.
Subject(s): ATHLETES; MARBLE; SCULPTURE & SCULPTORS; STATUES;

STATUE-LIKE @3standeth he forth, quick, elate,
Sculptured from living flesh, and closely planned
As any marble from the sculptor's hand
In poise and posture, stature, frame, and weight;
Thoughtful months, too, are in his making: Fate,
Win he or lose, here is not blind; command
Is laid that sinew and brain understand:
One fine tool, calculated, delicate@1.

@3Yet art sufficeth not. To gain his end
With glory soul must be; the selfishness
Which bringeth sparks from Paradise to earth
Muscle and mind to kindle and transcend;
Some high ideal he will not confess,
Such as hath given martyrs mortal birth@1.



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