I have nothing
to give materially
in my paucity
but my heart
I can- completely-
my love, pray tell me
this paltry gift
would you accept readily
and unequivocally?

But words
I've abundantly
I can write you
my heartiest poetry
in eternal praise
of your grace
and beauty-

not just a few
but volumes
as though
in religious devotion
and unfailing duty -
daily and endlessly!

But if you were
to choose
what is princely
I'll set aside-
I can't compete
with the aristocracy

I'd know by then
there's no potency
or any persuasiveness
in my unworthy poetry-


I'll bow gently
my fairest lady
and promise faithfully
never again
to draw nigh
or to address thee.