"Every time we get a big gale around here <br /> some people just refuse to batten down." <br /> <br />we estimate that <br /> <br />ice skating into a sixty <br />mile an hour wind, fully exerting <br />the legs and swinging arms <br /> <br />you will be pushed backward <br />an inch every twenty minutes. <br /> <br />in a few days, depending on <br />the size of the lake, <br />the backs of your skates <br />will touch land. <br /> <br />you will then fall on your ass <br />and be blown into the forest. <br /> <br />if you gather enough speed <br />by flapping your arms <br />and keeping your skates pointed <br /> <br />you will catch up to other <br />flying people who refused to batten down. <br />you will exchange knowing waves <br />as you ride the great wind north.<br /><br />Billy Collins<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/for-bartleby-the-scrivener/
