Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Hunch on a haunch

A haunch in masonry

is that part of an arch

where thrusting forces splay

and try to push out most.

If we start at the top and work

our way down, the haunch

is measured at a precise angle

in a round, Roman or barrel vault.

It is fifty one degrees

and fifty one minutes

universally, without exception.

The slope of great pyramids is based on

a wonder, the slippery number

of the golden mean, or phi

a greek letter that sounds like ‘fee.’

The slope of these pyramids is precise and

astounding because it is measured

at fifty one degrees

and fifty one minutes

but no one can reckon

Why?



13 comments:

  1. No idea why, maybe it has to do with the angle of the stars and such? :) Nice piece!

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  2. Who knows why Ina? Not me, I merely noticed it.

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  3. I enjoyed this poem immensely. I had just finished studying about masons . . . how ironic. Very well done! Thank you!

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  4. Invite you to join poets rally week 42, awards are given to first time participants.

    You will love the encouragements you get once you are in and make commitment.

    Love your blog and writing style.

    You Rock!
    xxx

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  5. Like this alot, I hav no idea either, but it is fun to ponder why !
    JL&B

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  6. and to come across new mysteries!!!.......very well written......a breath of fresh air :)

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  7. Thanks for sharing..

    stunning piece.
    have fun.
    :)

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  8. This kind of made my head hurt, in a good way. Nicely done :)

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  9. Enjoying your work. Glad I found the rally (or better yet, that the rally found me!)

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  10. Que sera......! It's makes a great read anyway!

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  11. Very informative and descriptive. Quite substantial poem in terms of content.

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