Sonnet I
If ever I a simple sonnet write
I'll pick a subject which to all is dear.
I'll string the words in order, with delight,
That they ring true to all attentive ears.
As far as meaning, sense, and import go,
I rest assured that I will hardly say
Great things, profound, in rhymes that freely flow,
As famous poets did in former days.
But all my thoughts will rest in simpler lines,
Well understood by every common man.
And finally, like a tasteful, special wine
That cheers the heart, as fine wines only can,
I'll make the theme cohesive and complete,
To settle nicely, come out tasting sweet!
Sonnet II
I thought I had a sonnet written right,
Was sure I used the proper metric form;
And felt I had a poem well in sight
That to the sonnet's pattern would conform.
But, all at once, my pen began to fail!
I summoned up with all my inner strength
Ideas to complete a thoughtful tale.
But after striving much and at great length,
Frustration set upon my troubled mind.
I said, "For me this venture's but a task,
Cohesive words are much too hard to find!"
Just then I heard the overseer ask,
"And are you finished with that simple chore?
When that one's done, I'll have you write one more!"
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Ode to Spring
The winter's days are nearly gone
And spring will soon break out in song.
With varied colours, all sublime
Will spring then celebrate her time;
As gradually the cold will yield
And leave its footprints in the field,
Till all at once it disappears,
Not seen by any till next year.
And when the warming trend begins
The earth will soften once again,
And by the bright beams which descend
Will bring forth flowers without end.
And some like joyous trumpeteers
Will send forth fragrance sweet and dear.
The robins' fling will then take wing
As they without a care will sing;
The swallows too will then give voice,
The larks as well will then rejoice.
The beasts will also have their day
And in the fields will freely play.
So as these things are ushered in
By spring, which gladdens all within,
Then to the One Who made these things
Will all creation jointly sing,
And offer up with fervent love
Thanksgiving with the hosts above.
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