Who isn’t frustrated and does not prove it by his actions — if you want to say so? But through art the psychologically maimed may become the most dis… - William Carlos Williams

THE THOUGHTFUL LOVER

Deny yourself all
half things. Have it
or leave it.

But it will keep — or
it is not worth
the having.

Never start
anything you can't
finish — However do not lose
faith because you
are starved!

She loves you
she says. Believe it — tomorrow.

But today
the particulars
of poetry

that difficult art
require
your whole attention.

There is no thing that with a twist of the imagination cannot be something else. Porpoises risen in a green sea, the wind at nightfall bending the rose- red grasses and you- in your apron hurrying to catch- say it seems to you to be your son. How ridiculous! You will pass up into a cloud and look back at me, not count the scribbling foolish that put wings at your heels, at your knees.

All women are not Helen, I know that, but have Helen in their hearts.