WHEN YOU SAY

When you say you love somebody,

Do those words come from your head,

- From your heart?

..Or do they never depart from your lips?

Except, of course, in quips

Which, though they wipe away 

Sincerity, add sentimental gesture.

- And when you've said those words,

Are you still sure,

That's what you've longed to say?

Do you feel proud then,

Or vulnerable - or do you feel

Chastised, in so much 

As what you've spoken

Yields repine.

When you feel the need to give in love,

Does that feeling stem from your soul?

- Or from outside?

..Or is it pride, which

Breaks a wave of guilt

About your head, and sets you searching

High and low,

Lost in a valour reaped from provacation and shame?

- And when your lover is waiting,

Do you find yourself wanting...

Do you feel languid

Or sodden - or do you feel

Elation...?

And does your lover

Share your satisfaction?