Two Poems

JOHANN JOACHIM QUANTZ'S FIVE LESSONS

The First Lesson
So that each person may quickly find that
Which particularly concerns him, certain metaphors
Convenient to us within the compass of this
Lesson are to be allowed. It is best to sit
Here where I am to speak on the other side
Of language. You, of course, in your own time
And incident (I speak in the small hours.)
Will listen from your side. I am very pleased
We have sought us out. No doubt you have read
My Flute Book. Come. The Guild clock's iron men
Are striking out their few deserted hours
And here from my high window Breughel's winter
Locks the canal below. I blow my fingers.

The Second Lesson
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