At what point do
boys step into adulthood,
and girls attain their womanhood
so youth at last are understood?

At what point does
a speaker keep too long the floor;
guest become unwelcome bore;
work, once loved, become a chore?

Why does
wealth make its possessor slave;
zephyr into gale misbehave;
ripple rise to crested wave?

How soon does
master bow to pupil’s brilliance
apprentice lose all ignorance
mulishness switch to resilience?

What is the moment that
vexing habits cease to revile;
frown transmutes to pleasant smile
helping lovers reconcile?

At what instant does
a prank become too cruel;
pride cause one to be a fool
turning a game into a duel?

When does
the betrayed become aware;
hope sink down to deep despair
and confidence conquer fear?

What amount
of passion need love acquire
to make a wish become desire
so glowing embers flare to fire?

And what is the number
at which we no longer greet
persons encountered on the street;
is it two or three, or maybe four
ere eyes avert to greet no more?

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