ODE TO THE SALP

While in port, a poem appeared on the white board outside the chief scientist's office. We were able to discover who left this "anonymous" masterpiece: our Raytheon Special Projects Manager, John Evans, who admitted that his inspiration had origins in a more famous poem. Do you know the original poem? Here is the "salpy" version:

MATCHING WITS WITH THE WILEY SALP

I think that I shall never see

A salp as lovely as a tree

In fact – as best I can recall –

I’ve seldom seen a salp at all!

I’ve plowed the seas from west to east,

In search of this elusive beast.

A beast of cunning, craft, and guile

With habits gross, appearance vile.

A beast of loathsomeness unmatched

When found with amphipod attached

O salp! O creature least divine!

You’re nothing but transparent slime.

And yet I seek thee all the while

Here in thy salpy domiciles

How is it that I search for thee?

What secrets might thou share with me?

And may those secrets be descried

Immersed in glutaraldehyde?

How is it that our lives entwine?

What links thy destiny with mine?

And tho’ I’ve searched for thee in vain

I have no wish to cause thee pain.

So e’re we part, I’ll simply say

Have a happy, salpy day!

By John Evans

Special Projects Coordinator

Raytheon Polar Services Co.

With apologies to a more famous poet!