Apogee Ae

Zenith of mount Apex of all No peak too high No aim too tall He reaches, he strains; He wears himself thin. He toils, he strives; His drive to be perfection's kin. O mighty indeed But the goal causes fall. Prodigious intellect But not wisdom for one, save all. He hath tried and hath fought for What he still wills to attain. "Eminence" and "Pinnacle"; "Crown of Man" the title he wishes to claim. But how you have strayed! The world watches and waits. Sneering and jeering As languishes one who was great. To be escalated and elevated Indeed he did intend, Instead stumbled and staggered And only did he descend. Shadow of self Shell of past A look none will give To him a glance none will cast. "Dunderhead" and "Derelict"; "Schlemiel" is his name. Ne'er to be remembered Is his former fame. There are few who know Fewer who understand But should you be aware You would weep o'er this man. Power, glory, and strength Were to be his right hand But dishonor, poverty, and disgrace Are now the garland upon his head.