STILL THEY SPEAK OF SHAKESPEARE

still they speak of Shakespeare in a brightening hour

but we leave disappointed

since they only mean their power,

the power to distort at least to, bye and bye

his brilliant fire and eloquence

to fit the currrent lies

and we who heard him early

or read a little late

can spot the game's afoot

to shut up heaven's gates

that let in so much beauty

sheer magnitude enthralled

it irks them that their small gift

compared, is not at all.

let them drain the coffers

of the language we hold dear

they only live to celebrate

themselves from year to year.

but there's a reckoning to be sure

and beauty will unmarred endure

nor bear a scar from those who sneer

who care not at all for literature

oh let me make that clear.

mary angela douglas 24 may 2023