Classic Poem

The reward of curiosity
In such as you are
(Statisticians of doubt)
Is increased cause for curiosity,
And the punishment thereof,
To be not a cat.

I shall inform you truthfully,
And you will hear philosophically,
And more words will be required,
And you shall have them.

There is no end of information
Where there is no end of intelligence
By which to comprehend
Always somewhat.

As through a stained-glass vision
The simple instantaneous light
Is gradual and shy as God.

That is, as much remains to be described
As you have ear for.
And you have not only a live ear
But an immortal mind.

Assuming by your finical attention
That you allow the whole and ask
A mere enumeration of parts,
I shall avoid all argument.
In the general thing, we agree.
In the particulars you are well-disposed.

I shall pay you the humane compliment
Of not beginning at the beginning—
Which is the procedure with cats,
That love to start with nothing
And start again of sudden ending.

May you be long in dying.
Is this not your wish?