Three Propositions

[PrinceMyshkin]

When God proclaimed his own existence
some of us wondered
if a hen could declare itself
a skyscraper and, if so,
could we climb to the 18th floor?

Miracles are the brain
in free-fall, sacred love
is a parody of the real thing.

To love your children
is to keep the Messiah
from the cross.

[Hawkman]

Hear, hear, although I'd broaden the scope of the last verse. To love another human being perhaps, rather than limit one's love to offspring - but I guess one has to start somewhere ;)

Live long and prosper - H

[miyako73]

I have always liked your austere writing that says a lot. Thanks!

[Delta40]

I'm puzzled by the first proposition and anytime I hear skyscraper, 18th floor, the old twin tower leaps to my mind so I'm probably missing something there so I apologise. Knowing you Prince, its undoubtedly deep and insightful and I've simply skimmed the surface!

[MorpheusSandman]

Delta, I think your picking up on the "twin towers" is actually quite perceptive, as it implies the most abysmal and horrific of actions that "sacred love" can lead people into. So the idea of real love saving people from death is wonderfully contrasted, both by the veiled allusion to 9/11 (subtly done, I might add) and to the crucifixion. One does wonder why such divine devotion is often most vividly personified in the most horrific of events.

Anyway, excellent piece, Prince. As always, simple, elegant, with a subtly intelligent craftsmanship.

[aliengirl]

I too was puzzled by the first stanza and after reading the above interpretation I wonder what did Prince want to convey. There is more to it than I can see right now.