Classic Poem

I would be chosen not because I stood
Alone in your desire and eagerness
(With no one else as ardent to possess
Your body and soul, and all the kindred good
That you are part of) but because I could
Outrank the others when there was no dearth
Of worthier than I to prove my worth.
Nor would I win you narrowly, as would.

Assailers of their rivals. Only when
Your tests with privilege, your feasts with pride,
Your hopes in wealth, your faith in the allied
False values of the world have failed you — then
Would I be proud to go to you as yours,
Knowing that you had tried (and closed) all doors.