Lesser Talents

Billy Collins wrote a poem, A roll call of the dead. The TV brought their faces up To match the names he read. His paean was so poignant; With simplicity and power, He honored all the victims Of our nation’s darkest hour. I listened to him, mesmerized. He conjured such a mood That anybody watching Would be somber and subdued. My husband turned to me and said, “Now that’s a top-notch poet,” Implying I’m not in that league, As if I didn’t know it. I tip my hat to Billy. To my husband I replied That lesser talents still possess Some purpose they provide. And so I write my thoughts in rhyme Which somehow satisfies, Despite the fact my lesser skills This work exemplifies.