Not forgotten.

for Rod Burstall

You were not by me forgotten
but my passion had begotten
much distraction and delay.

That is where I stay today:
stuck in unrequited love,
lonely like a broken staff.

Thus I did not write you back.
This was not because of lack
of esteem or appreciation
but I had this occupation,
wallowed in mud and rain,
was no longer souvereign.

But I did despise you not.
Richer than an open pod,
please forgive I was so odd,
brilliant, sweet, consciencious Rod!