Response poem to George Darley's "It is not Beauty I Demand" (Strong Verse magazine) |
One of a baker's dozen of poems I am writing based on the INSPIRATIONS April 2009 prompts. I recommend you read the original George Darley poem first to better understand the response (and because it is a great poem). In case it isn't clear, my response is meant to be a bit tongue-in-cheek. Do not thy Beauty scorn, a response poem to "It is not Beauty I demand" by George Darley in 1828 I understand your preference For sympathy and loyal heart And hope that you take no offence When I assert our ways do part. Though kindly heart I hold most dear, I hold it closest, love it best, When it beats fast in chemise sheer And hid beneath a shapely breast. Vain mermaid’s yellow pride is least True proof of loyalty and trust. But lovely tresses oft’ released Are pleasing o’er an ample bust. ‘Tis true that gentle words can come From lips both pale and thinned by time But words less fair make me succumb When dropped from ruby lips sublime. Much softer than a summer breeze That golden meadow cleft in twain; Such shadows shimmer, made to please. Temptations, may your heart disdain. Just gauds, you say, of no import Dismissing eyes with ardor filled Ye gods, I say, in quick retort Such smold’ring eyes my passion thrilled. Your earthly comfort shared your fate And gently laid her loyal head. My comfort lies ‘fore Heaven’s Gate Her lively beauty shares my bed. |