Oh, Let Me Into Your Heart

Well, darling, in matters so delicate as this, What with ever so many variables And determinants, permutations And combinations, It’s hardly ever possible To tell the turn of events. I just keep wondering: Is it something always asked for? Or taken for granted? Does it take supplication? Or is it just a matter of patient waiting, As for Nissim Ezekiel, as for a birdwatcher? A matter of time? Is it love at first sight, As for Shakespeare’s Rosalind and Orlando? Or is it something of the awful daring Of a moment’s surrender?! Or is it offered on a platter? Or is it that I could get into your heart Through your ears, as most men seek to? Does ambience matter? A date in a posh restaurant? Will I think of the dim and distant future? Or would I feel inspired Or disheartened by romances of the past? However, I would just as soon tell you: Don’t know, darling, how it all happened. All I know or I think I know is It just happened! If you should insist on an apt simile, Let me add: “Well, as would a tiny seed Strike its tender roots in the crevice of a rock Did you strike roots in my heart. Or, as if by some strange art. Anyway, I needn’t have to say, smiling smart: “Oh, Let me into your heart!” *** Winner II, Premiere Poetry Contest, sponsored by Julie Rodeheaver: August 20, 2017