KNOW THYSELF

(An Agnostic on Mortality)

Astrology, Theology,
Ancestors of Psychology
That new kid on the psychic block
To whom the modern sinners flock.

Where once the gods above the skies
Dispensed forgiveness for our lies,
We now seek solace from a 'Shrink',
Suppress our guilt with 'pot' and drink.

But Ancients Greeks - all mighty smart
Foreshadowed Freud, Voltaire, Descartes
At Delphi's Shrine where Truth was sought,
Found "Know Thyself"- Man's wisest thought.

But what is "Self" that 'silver thread' ?
Unseen within confining head.
Not entity - just fleeting scans
Of games and pains and hopeful plans.

A mortal biologic fire
Predestined only to expire,
But twixt the spark and final ash
What fun we had throughout that dash.

by Paul Rattenbury
Alderley Edge, Cheshire

Temple at Delphi
bearing the inscription
"Know thyself"