What strange genetic drive, one wonders, grew
Contests, games, the triple axels, snow board
Contortion, the need for speed, grace imbued
In athletes’ fierce greed to win, be adored?
We know we need to eat and drink, survive
Our weather’s rigors, somehow reproduce.
We’ve learned (though not too well) to get along,
Form social orders, minimize abuse.
But what the devil spawned competition?
The oldest athletes raced, threw javelins,
Wrestled, shot arrows—sport reeked of mission—
Useful stuff—not ice dance, nothing feminine.
Ancient games? Strength, ability to kill.
Designed, no doubt, to hone sharp wartime skills.
(2/13/14)