My Young Son Asks Me

My young son asks me: Must I learn mathematics?

What is the use, I feel like saying. That two pieces

Of bread are more than one's about all you'll end up with.

My young son asks me: Must I learn French?

What is the use, I feel like saying. This State's collapsing.

And if you just rub your belly with your hand and

Groan, you'll be understood with little trouble.

My young son asks me: Must I learn history?

What is the use, I feel like saying. Learn to stick

Your head in the earth, and maybe you'll still survive.

Yes, learn mathematics, I tell him.

Learn your French, learn your history!