PERFORMANCE

By following the strictest rules of form,
I discipline my wayward brain to seek
From all the myriad sentiments that swarm
A thought that’s aptly fitting and unique.

Though one might think this method limiting
And free-form writing the ideal way,
Both rhyme and meter make a poem sing,
For poetry must play as well as say.

Right here, you know, a sonnet takes a turn
(The form demands predictable surprise,
So let another scheme of rhyme arise)
Then see what the last couplet can discern:

     While rhyme and meter better serve a lover,
     Their highest use is clearly to discover.

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