ELEGY FOR THE EIGHTH VICTIM
 
    Majestic...
    the ascent
    of a powerful giant;
    a beacon
    shining
    into and from
    the future.
 
    Magnificent...
    memories of
    previous flights;
    the stark, white body
    gracefully gliding
    against the black emptiness
    of space.
 
    Challenger...
    the eighth hero,
    the eighth victim
    of the 25th flight,
    I salute you
    and mourn
    your death.