Ode to Q.E.D.
by Luella Ellington
in Mathematics and Humor
Hail to thee
O Q.E.D. —
At the end of each proof you are found.
While mathematics to me
Was a turbulent sea,
You represented dry ground.
My inadequate brain
Strove to conjure again
the steps that the author deleted,
As you played double role
(Both inspirer and goal) --
A Greek phrase for "mission completed."
Quite early in youth
I discovered the truth —
I've no mathematical learning.
But years of exposure
Have brought me composure,
And you, Q.E.D., a new meaning.
You're the first thing I see
That's familiar to me,
Though the last thing that catches my eye;
Then, hail to thee!
O Q.E.D.,
Greek for "God only knows why!"