27 MARCH 1993, Page 37

Advice to our Son

The trick is, to live your days as if each one may be your last (for they go fast, and young men lose their lives in strange and unimaginable ways) but at the same time, plan long range (for they go slow: if you survive the shattered windshield and the bursting shell you will arrive at our approximation here below of heaven and hell).

To be specific, between the peony and the rose plant squash and spinach, turnips and tomatoes; beauty is nectar and nectar, in a desert, saves — but the stomach craves stronger sustenance than the honeyed vine.

Therefore, marry a pretty girl after seeing her mother; speak truth to one man, work with another; and always serve bread with your wine.

But, son, always serve wine.

Peter Meinke