New Expedition To The East Pole Poem by Roger Gerald Hicks

I love you because you are fun to sit quietly with-
because your words come out in symphonies-
because with you, my ideas flow like lava.

I love you because you know the names of things
I've forgotten the names of- because you hear me,
when sometimes I barely hear myself.

I love you because with you, I forget my misgivings,
concentrate on wonderful things I have,
realizeI have vastly more than enough.

I love you because each piece of clothing you remove
leaves you more beautiful, until like a nova,
my world is nearly brighter than I can tolerate.

I love you because you always cry at the sad parts;
because you get wet in the rain.

I love you because the sun will rise tomorrow
flowers will be brilliant
birds will chirp cheerfully
and none of their young will go hungry.

I love you because TV will be more optimistic,
because...because fruit will be much sweeter.

I'll love you through separation and rage.
I'll love you through the mystery of dark alleys-
howling dogs- wailing sirens.
I'll love you as the roaring wind loves bell towers.

If you ever desert me,
I'll cherish your footprints on my carpets;
the outline of your spirit on my soul.