Underneath the urban sky, The Washington Square Arch stands high, A sentinel in the heart of Greenwich Village, Its marble façade a timeless image.
Erected for the centennial of Washington's inauguration, A nod to the nation's foundation, Its grand arc, a portal through time, Witness to stories, both grand and sublime.
Inspired by Paris's Arc de Triomphe, Yet uniquely American, a dream in stone. Two majestic eagles, sculpted, gaze, Guardians of history, through the city's haze.
Beneath its arch, students from NYU convene, In this urban oasis, a daily scene. Artists sketch, musicians play, A symphony of life in an endless ballet.
Once, the haunt of beat poets and folk singers, Their verses and chords, now linger. In the park’s embrace, their spirits thrive, In whispers of wind, their words alive.
In the shadow of this grand structure, Protests and rallies found their juncture. Voices raised for justice and peace, In its presence, their resolve would increase.
Winter's snow or summer's light, The arch stands tall, day and night. A canvas for moonbeams and streetlights’ glow, A silent witness to the seasons’ flow.
The Fourteenth Street bustle fades, In the park, tranquility pervades. Families, friends, and lovers stroll, Each step, a part of the city’s soul.
Architect Stanford White’s vision clear, Crafted with both skill and cheer. A masterpiece of Beaux-Arts flair, A symbol of pride, beyond compare.
As pigeons flutter and children play, The Washington Square Arch holds sway, A monument to a nation's past, Yet ever present, its legacy vast.
Marble sentry of the city’s heart, In its shadow, life does start. A beacon of hope, a symbol so grand, In New York, it will ever stand.