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(A proofreader's note regarding “inoculate” and “inculcate”)
“Inoculate” and “inculcate” are tantalizing lookers,
Displaying most letters as shared.
As actors apparent, their meanings will differ,
With only one likeness there dared.
Both verbs in their actions portray an “implanting”;
A likeness would then not surprise.
For “inculcate” skillful, the mind is the target,
Which limits the way it applies.
At first, “to inoculate” meant grafting in planting,
A bud (or “eye”--oculus) moved;
“To introduce an item right into another”;
This meaning at core was thus grooved.
When items delivered were immunologically active,
The sense of “protecting” arose;
To foster resistance by sending foes weakened,
Or strengthen a metal by dose.
Thus several the targets “inoculate” delights in;
Another one clearly the mind.
Since “inculcate” teaches with mental impressions,
“Inoculate” is like it by kind.
“‘A teacher must inculcate, repeating instructions,’
The leader was heard to proclaim.
He wished with his words to inoculate even
The ones who avoided his fame.”