When Poets Get Together

 
When those who don't love poetry
consider those who do,
the questions that they ask just prove
they haven't got a clue:

"Whenever poets meet to talk,
what topics do they choose?
Do they discuss their daily lives
and stories on the news?

Do they compare their favorite teams
and grumble when they lose,
emote about the hottest soaps,
and speak of sales on shoes?

Are poets much like other folks,
just blending with the crowds,
or do they float around detached--
their heads all in the clouds?"

         ********************

I speak for poets everywhere,
who in our art unite.
I'll satisfy these questions now
with answers short and light:

"Whenever poets meet to talk,
our topic lists are long,
eclectic blends of daily life
and loves that make us strong.

We speak of vogues and villanelles,
of sports and sonnets too,
of TV shows and triolets,
sweet children and haiku.

Excitedly, we gush about
vacations, formal verse,
free form, love poems, spouses' vows--
for better or for worse!

If you should see us floating on
the clouds, be patient, please.
We're busy writing odes for you
that surely will appease."