The Spike: or, Victoria University College Review, June 1916
Potens et Impotens
Potens et Impotens.
See that rose-bud fair,
Rounded, sweet,
That the summer air,
Loves to greet?
Pluck it from the stalk,
Rough of hand!
Throw it on the walk,
Where you stand!
Bruise it with your heel,
Smirch its white!
Flowers cannot feel.
Use your might!
Stamp its sweetness out
In the dirt!
See the stem relax,
Badly hurt,
Leave it where it lies
On the ground!
There are beauties fresh
All around.
Only one the less—
Gods on high
Love such sport as this—
Why not I?
—"Heretica."