The Passionate Curse

I wish, for just one day, that I could feign

A measure of indifference to you,
Conceal my lust, damp down the baneful flames
With cavalier remarks, cheap jokes for two...

For passion is my master and my foe

Betraying me with every word I breathe.
From my despairing touch, you seem to know
I house a hopeless heart without reprieve.

I know you'll always want what you can't get -

For all I have to give you, I will fail.
Men blessed with cool facades, bland etiquette -
Their casual lies and laughter will prevail.

So as they pose with you, their latest pull,

Impressing you with Jack-the-Laddish ways,
I'll pine for you, a doomed, romantic fool
And view you through a distant drunken haze.