"The Life of Science, or Modesty" by Howard Stein, Frequent Contributor & Poet of the Week

The Life of Science, or Modesty

Howard Stein   

Based on my

extensive research,

I KNOW.

I have the data;

I have published it widely

in well-respected journals.

I refer you to my book --

In all modesty I must say

that many reviewers

consider it the definitive

work in its field.

The life of science requires

an unprecedented degree

of self-abnegation.

Poet's Notes:  Over my career, I have attended many scientific conferences. Many presenters were haughty about their findings.  At one such conference a few years back, I took notes on the presenter's claims about the correctness and significance of his work. I could not believe he could be so openly contemptuous. His words found their way into my subsequent poem. All along, I remembered that in graduate school we were taught to be humble about our work. This pungent poem is my reply to the speaker's brazenness.

Editor’s Note:  Once in a while, Songs of Eretz has the privilege of publishing a poem with a message that is of the utmost importance for the world to hear.  This poem falls into that category.  We could all use a hefty dose of humility in our dealings with each other--especially in the sciences.  I only hope my humble e-zine will disseminate this poem properly as it deserves.