I could have loved you,
madman though you were,
would have been loyal
would have been true

there would have been no need
to struggle as you did
to find acclaim, acceptance
pleasure and comfort abed.

I’d have done ‘most anything
to keep you well supplied
with canvass, paint and brush
to build your artist’s pride.

I would have stayed near
loved your work…
your soul,
your all
and

you could have kept your ear.