K'inich Janaab Pakal Poem by Charles Todd

Before
Maya ancestors gave us
Concept of zero
Sophisticated 20-based mathematics
Advanced writing system and
A calendar more accurate than Gregory's

I am
Pakal the Great, most famous ajaw of Palenque
Now in mid-life, born in 603 CE
Destined to reign 68 years
Always proving entitlement to rule
Responsible for monumental architecture in Palenque

Tomorrow
Our gods will bless us
We will raise Palenque, our city-state, to greatness
Palenque will be smothered by jungle
The Maya will live forever
You will know the Maya are among you.