RELAY/RELATE

​(A proofreader's note regarding “relay” and “relate”)

Like “relay,” the race, all “relays” transfer;
From one to another a signal they send;
For even the hounds in exchange and refresh--
A getting and passing-on ever they lend.

When speaking of “relay” we sometimes intend
The laying of items like emphasis placed
On syllables favored in words like “relay”
That otherwise leave us all flustered and crazed.

With emphasis second, this latter is verb,
Though sometimes the same will its strength put on first.
To “receive and then pass along” core to its act,
“Relay” adds precision; “relate” does it nurse.
 
“Relate” is a telling, no transfer implied,
Without a relationship tied to its hide.
But with understanding, connection twixt two,
“Relate” is then given more meanings to ride.

“To relay the pavers, her spouse made a date,
Accepting that 're-lie' no stones would obey.
Their fate she would guess and their story relate
While waiting for word from her mate to relay.”