Zen in the Art of Writing

by Ray Bradbury

The lands beyond my land are vast and bright, Yet I with one sure hand put out their light. I snuff Alaska, doubt Sun King’s France, slit Britain’s throat, Promote old Mother Russia out of mind with one fell blink, Shove China off a marble quarry brink, Knock far Australia ...

I bury all the stars in Cosmic Deep. So, listen, world, be warned, know honest dread. When I grow sick, that day your blood is dead. Behave yourself, I’ll stick and let you live. But misbehave, I’ll take what now I give. That is the end and all. Your flags are furled… If I am shot and dropped? So ends your world.