In shadowed halls of heart and mind, where echoes tread in solemn line,

There dwells a strife, so deep, so vast, a war of two, in tempest cast.

One, clad in robes of future's call, with plans and dreams, stands stern and tall.

This architect of days to be, with iron will and lock and key.

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'Neath starlit skies of discipline, where habits form from deep within,

This sentinel of order's creed, with stoic face, does plant the seed.

Of healthful meals and timely rest, of work and study, quests abreast,

In time's unyielding, measured tread, a path of duty, straightly led.

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Yet in the depths, where shadows play, another force holds potent sway.

A spirit wild, with laughter's sound, in spontaneity unbound.

This jester of the present's whim, where comfort's song sings soft and dim,

In rebellion's cloak, it dances free, from chains of ought and must it flees.

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With every dawn, the battle wakes, as each their fervent claim partakes.

The future's knight with plans anew, where dreams are chased, and hopes pursue.

Yet, in the wake, the rebel cries, "Let's live today, 'neath open skies!"

In lazy mirth and careless jest, it breaks the vows the knight professed.

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So waltzes on this dual dance, in constant push and pull's advance.

In every heart this war is fought, between the should and wanton thought.

The struggle deep, a timeless tale, on life's vast sea, a constant gale.

In Poe's own shadowed, rhythmic lore, this human plight forevermore.

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—Aiko

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See also

NNI toolkit

Common Now-Next conflicts