Reciprocity

Because of some technical problems with one of my computers, it is very difficult at the moment to post anything to my Web site. Normally, I would add a page to the Poetry section of Lionel Deimel’s Web Log when I finish a poem. Since I cannot do that just now, I will offer my latest poem here.

There isn’t much I want to say about “Reciprocity” other than that it would be a mistake to read anything autobiographical into it. The repeated first stanza—inspired by I don’t know what—was written first, and the rest of the poem flowed from those four lines.

Reciprocity

by Lionel Deimel

Would I be happy were I free Instead of being blue Because you’re now a part of me, But I’m not part of you? We seem to be a perfect pair— I finish what you say, I dress to match the clothes you wear, And ask about your day. You have so many thoughts to share And stories to recite; You awe me with your savoir faire, Beguile me through the night. Our music tastes are quite the same; We often vote alike; I hate the authors you think lame; And love to ride your bike. You sometimes call when you’ll be late, But sometimes you forget; You seem untroubled by my wait, Evincing no regret. You seem to have some other friends Whom I have yet to meet; I have a list of odds and ends You never can complete. I’ve learned to like the things you do— That’s something you’ve not done; Why can’t you try out something new, Because I’d find it fun? Would I be happy were I free Instead of being blue Because you’re now a part of me, But I’m not part of you?