Ode to Numbers

Numbers are real, but they can be irrational; numbers are natural, but they can be negative.

Arabic or Roman, numbers depict quantities, combinations, permutations, probabilities.

They are used to add, subtract, multiply, and divide;

To measure pain, space, volume, and time.

Numbers exist with exponents, logarithms, and reciprocals.

Numbers represent discounts, register markups, form indexes, or determine value.

Numbers solve problems, express rhythm, identify locations, and find people.

Numbers are special, as for birthdays,

Promising, as for favorable odds,

Sexy, as in good figures.

Numbers deserve an ode!