I Search for Poems

 

John Williams

 

I search for poems by authors of today,

way in the back, behind philosophy,

and next to science fiction in case I wish

to read the new bestselling narrrative.

 

But what's the use? Why should I waste my time?

They all contain the same bromidic lines

In borken prose about the blase self:

Another naarcissistic bard who twangs

Insipid songs that stack upon the shelf.

 

And what of reviews? Do they exist at all

Without a pat on the back or obscure award?

 

I'm not the first to question verse's blight.

Better than I have voiced their mild regret

At Poetry's fall from its Parnassian height.