First Avatar, One

Elaine Bench,
Response to Sappho, One

“I must go now, Irene, my love, I go
With much regret; but I’ll return in spring
When first the early crocus breaks the snow
And long before the laggard bluebells ring.”
“Your words are full of flowers in reply,
And so I doubt them, sweet Elaine; I’ll wait
For you, and love, not past this next July –
On August 1st I’ll find another mate.”
“Irene, my dove, love knows no almanacs;
You’re too much by the book – these patent terms
Take violet from the rose, and arrant facts
Entwine your petalled brow with little worms.”
“Elaine, if you’re the violet I’m the rose;
And worms and roses – you know how that goes.”