Dürer would have seen a reason for living
in a town like this, with eight stranded whales
to look at; with the sweet sea air coming into your house
on a fine day, from water etched
...
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TWO: Despite the inherent dangers, their unwavering desire for perfection drives them forward. The poem also celebrates the interconnectedness of the town's inhabitants, emphasizing community and hope.
ONE: It is about risk and the pursuit of perfection. The protagonist, the steeple-jack, courageously scales tall buildings and undertakes perilous tasks as part of their job.
THREE: The steeplejack's work, symbolized by gilding the star on the church spire, represents optimism and resilience within the town