a stitch in time

the straw that breaks the camel's back
is trivial, alone;
a drop of rain, in earth's vast lack,
leaves not the world undone,
until it multiplies its metronome
to flush the poor man from his humble home.
♪
a word that tumbles out of turn
to bruise a patient ear
may flames of passion cause to burn
the friends you hold most dear.
the bridled tongue is an orchestral suite
whose sweet refrain yields to the baton's beat.
♪
a violin's g-string may save
a song from certain death
when, threatened by her early grave,
the bow restores her breath
and channels her along a nobler path
than where her sibling strings have suffered wrath.
♪
not ill alone marks time by sharp,
fleet reckonings with chance!
the heav'ns declare, by flute and harp,
which step will freeze the dance
of men who, knowing that a stitch in time
saves nine, pursue a purpose more sublime.

© Copyright 2020 October 21
by Clyve A. Bowen♫