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So Hoffmann was a better poet because

He suffered much for love and of course lost

Only to pour his soul into his verse

As if that would prevent it being worse

Than all the maudlin tosh that will erupt

In four weeks time when Valentine's corrupt

And turgid effluence is here again

For neets and part-time shelf-stackers to drain

The dregs of doggerel as they stand confused

By pussy-cats and love-hearts; which to choose

To fill the void, as education left

Them tongue-tied, incoherent and bereft

          Of that small spark which, with a gentle shove,

          Might quietly gain confidence in love.

Brian Hick Jan 2011

©copyright Sally Hick Jan 2023