These things are atoms; though they’re small, there’s plenty of them, near and far.
Just roll them up to form a ball, then light the fuse – you’ve built a star!
I think it needs a planet, though, so get some rocks and dirt and stuff,
Then knead it up like making dough . . . Not bad, but still a little rough;
You’ll have to smooth the edges out (I find that water does the trick)
And help the thing to move about by giving it a gentle flick
To set it spinning round the sun. But what’s that shiny extra bit?
A moon, you say? Oh, nicely done! I never would have thought of it.
Now, though it wasn’t in my plan, perhaps it needs a spot of life;
I’ll show you how to build a man, and if that works, we’ll make a wife . . .

Right, lads, that’s six days on the trot. You’ve earned a break, so down your tools
And get your feet up. Tell you what, take Sunday off – it’s Union rules.

"When will we use this stuff?" they cry
when algebra bewilders.
Miss Sybil deigns to prophesy:
"You'll need it when you're builders."

Each clamours, "I'm not gonna be
a builder!" But a chill
still greets her second prophecy:
a murmured "Yes, you will."

Last minute but one more.

The Builders

Strong character makes the ablest
builders; it's more than skill we trust
in when they build the home our life
shall grow in with our kids and wife.
Each time we mount a building's stair
their hands secure us in the air.