Again and again (said the Old Mandarin)
As I pace my garden walks
My favourite Tonkin spaniel
Hopefully lays a stick at my feet,
Imploring my attention for a game.
Deep in thought, I pay no heed.

Just so, I reflect,
Simple men lay offerings, sacrifices, prayers,
At the altars of their gods,
Gaze wistfully for a sign.
There is no sign:
The gods walk gravely on,
Deep in thought.

Even the collapse of the Woolworth Building
Would not placate the Law of Gravity.