Friendship's Smile

FRIENDSHIP'S SMILE

  Friendship's smile is often dry
       for behind a warmth doth lie
  No need for gifts of shining gold
       What value do these hold ?
            Gifts seek a return
            and wise men discern
            Return then is not
       and that's the giver's lot

  Friendship's smile need not be dry
       for behind a warmth doth lie
  A gift though barely touching strife
       the token of a life
            No return is sought
            'Tis not even thought
            but friendship is got
       and that's the giver's lot

© GERALD ENGLAND

Composed: Pontefract, 4th April 1966

Publications
1967 Tait's Quarterly (UK)
1976 MEETINGS AT THE MOOR'S EDGE (West Kirkby, Headland)
1990 The Third Half (UK)
1992 Alternative (USA)