Because I am not ambidextrous.

Because I don’t churn out hundreds,

even thousands, of poems a year.

Because I could never afford the postage.

Because I haven’t mastered the art

of shameless self-promotion.

Because every time I score a goal of publication,

you have already been there;

you, the Kilroy of poetry.

Because I don’t schmooze and network

at every conference/convention/workshop in the country.

Because I haven’t won accolades from folks like Robert Frost –

Robert Frost, for Godsakes!

And so I defer to you, O Queen of the Small Presses! 

I bow before your well-traveled feet.

I kiss your prolific hand.

And I will content myself  to live

in your warm shadow.

08/11/2003

Posted on 08/11/2003
Copyright © 2025 Bruce W Niedt