I Never Give You Anything, You Said

 

I Never Give You Anything, You Said


I never give you anything, you said,

And meant it too, although it made me smile.

Your thoughts of giving are in general wed

To sturdy, lasting things – you have no guile

About you. Gifts mean money. And in part

You’re right, but in another sense how wrong!

Beauty, youth and passion, mirth and song. --

They’re free to you; you give them freely out

As simple favors to a loving friend,

Their value zero in your books no doubt,

But oh what precious capital you spend.

Youthful lover, if you only knew,

The greatest gift you give to me is you.


February 25, 1993