Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos, by Francisco de Goya
William Stafford

I let history happen – sorry. When Muslims and Christians fought in the Crusades, I didn’t stop it; the Egyptians and Jews clashed and my efforts were not sufficient to prevent that. Remote effects from these disasters still exist, and I have not erased them. My ancestors were busy cutting hay, planting potatoes, and so on. True, they probably spent a lot of time drinking and talking, and let that go on for years - I can’t deny it.

On the other hand, a group of people discovered wheat, corn, smelting of iron, prevention of disease, and I didn’t help very much. Heroic actions took place, and I didn’t even take the trouble to be there. Now I am taking the time to think about all this and write it down. And you are taking the time to read it.

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