More of John's poetry in a "slightly different genre." I received this poem today and think it's beautifully written. - poetheart 11/10/02
You say that I intrigue you;
I'm flattered, I must say.
I also find I'm drawn to you,
In some peculiar way...
For I am so much older,
And bound by many things,
And yet each time I see your name,
The heart inside me sings.
I must say, you're attractive-
There's more to love than looks.
I fear that I'm a realist,
Not mesmerized by books.
Romance is a tawdry word,
To mask the game of sin...
For beauty on the outside,
Oft masks the filth within.
You cannot know the things I've seen
Nor could I ever tell,
The pathways that I've walked in life,
The glimpse I've had of Hell.
I've nothing I can offer-
Besides poetic art...
Perhaps you'll take this gift from me,
I offer thee, my heart.
So take it, treat it tenderly,
And hang it on the wall.
And won't you wipe it gently,
When you see it's teardrops fall?
Perhaps this poem is crazy,
Yet I believe it's true.
It's all I have to offer,
Little friend, it is for you.
by John R. Yaws