Pension Building, Washington, DC

A
dis-
play
of the
normal
curve can
be found in
old buildings
where feet have
rubbed away the
middle of stair steps.
Here, wounded Union
veterans pulling one foot
over the new bricks, wore
off atoms. Men with crutches
placed them firmly at an angle.
Their boots scuffed the stairs.
Those who had been refused
pensions descended, while
dragging feet. Today, the
building, with its pillars
and open space is used
as a museum. Galas
may be held here;
hems of formal
gowns sweep
down the
stairs.