Whatever Is

Whatever is we only know

As in our minds we find it so;

No staring fact is half so clear

As one dim, preconceived idea --

No matter how the fact may glow.

Vainly may Truth her trumpet blow

To stir our minds; like heavy dough

They stick to what they think — won’t hear

Whatever is.

Our ancient myths in solid row

Stand up — we simply have to go

And choke each fiction old and dear

Before the modest facts appear;

Then we may grasp, reluctant, slow,

Whatever is.