The capsule enters the atmosphere
Like the tip of a hot microtome-sharp hypodermic
Inoculating the inhabitants of Earth
Against ancient, false notions; the heat shield flares
And takes the frictive, searing air
That the four star voyagers
Be not meted Icarus’s fate.
It is poetry in technology, seasoned with courage,
Marrying competence with competence.
Their splashdown completes a decelation
From Mach 20 to a peewee 20 miles per hour.
The gorgeous parachutes become drenched,
Withered flower petals.
The unscathed-survivor smiles
And the society-reentry strides
Are the best poetry of all.
One with Clay, Image and Text 