The Explorer – A Poem by Ted P. Daly

The Explorer *

I cannot dance in simple bliss

To the tinkling symbols of the age; 

Or join with full abandon

The parade of waving flags; 

Or step with unmixed joy 

To the strains of another's  song; 

Or choose between ploughshares and the sword

As those who chant for peace or war. 

I press beyond the soothing myth, 

Beyond the parables of truth

To a land of tingling consciousness, 

Of pure, if thinner air. 

Oh, many have been lost here, 

The landmarks are very few, 

But whatever I may find, 

I shall report to you. 

* from March Through Russia and Other Poems (1969) by Ted P. Daly. Philadelphia, Pa.: Dorrance & Company