I seek the laconic to seal in a word
Deep-seated emotions that long to be heard.

I trust it may sound like the name I hold dear –
And yours to my heart, darling, always is near.

I'd fill a fine glass with it, sparkling like wine,
At feasts, or in sorrow it always would shine.

It must be refined, captivating and true,
Inspiring blind love in a heart as you do.

If from your sweet lips it could learn how to sing
It ought to be envied, a glorious thing!

I lend my attention to orators' speech.
How empty they sound, yet they all want to preach!

Resounding, loud mouthings – how hollow they ring,
With logic as weak as a broken bird's wing!

Alas for the bird that had entered that hall!
My eyelids were drooping – poor bird, it must fall!

The speaker had faded, O dream of delight!
For one fleeting moment your face drew in sight.

Miraculous moment! O wonderous place!
Your glance full of meaning swept over my face.

Laconic your pledges of joy yet to be.
Tho' fleeting, that message spoke volumes to me.

1966