For C.G.B. <br /> <br />When she came on, you couldn't keep your seat; <br />Fighting your way up through the orchestra, <br />Tup-heavy bumpkin, you confused your feet, <br />Fell in the drum - how we went ha ha ha! <br />But once you gained her side and started waltzing <br />We all began to cheer; the way she leant <br />Her cheek on yours and laughed was so exalting <br />We thought you were stooging for the management. <br /> <br />But no. What you did, any of us might. <br />And saying so I see our difference: <br />Not your aplomb (I used mine to sit tight), <br />But fancying you improve her. Where's the sense <br />In saying love, but meaning indifference ? <br />You'll only change her. Still, I'm sure you're right.<br /><br />Philip Larkin<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/he-hears-that-his-beloved-has-become-engaged/
