Ah, Humble Heroism, Ah, Arrogant Complicity

It’s not a clever contradiction,
Much less deep paradox or koan,
To hold two exclusive positions
Unaware of their incoherence.
It’s a clue concerning the holder
Of both positions, a dark tip-off,
But not a peek into the cosmos.
We seem to like our heroes humble,
And condemn the idler’s arrogance.

Don’t think too much of yourself, person
Capable of transforming the world—
Don’t forget your culpability,
Person conscious of your own weakness.
We hold each other responsible,
Then remind each other to stay small.
On the off chance we’re truly helpless,
What do we expect to accomplish?
How should haughtiness follow a fall?