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Reasons For Attendance

 The trumpet's voice, loud and authoritative,
Draws me a moment to the lighted glass
To watch the dancers - all under twenty-five -
Solemnly on the beat of happiness.
- Or so I fancy, sensing the smoke and sweat, The wonderful feel of girls.
Why be out there ? But then, why be in there? Sex, yes, but what Is sex ? Surely to think the lion's share Of happiness is found by couples - sheer Inaccuracy, as far as I'm concerned.
What calls me is that lifted, rough-tongued bell (Art, if you like) whose individual sound Insists I too am individual.
It speaks; I hear; others may hear as well, But not for me, nor I for them; and so With happiness.
Therefor I stay outside, Believing this, and they maul to and fro, Believing that; and both are satisfied, If no one has misjudged himself.
Or lied.

Poem by Philip Larkin
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Book: Reflection on the Important Things