Paid Pipers Also Pay

Carol Ann Duffy (above) is the new British poet laureate and the first woman to be appointed to the position.

The job of official state poet burdens the office holder with writing poetry on tap. This has been known  to cause the poetic Muse to flee. The previous incumbent, Andrew Motion, said the job has been "very, very damaging to my work." 

I hope Duffy avoids a similar fate. Here's one of her poems, "Valentine," which I have always liked:

Valentine

Not a red rose or a satin heart.

I give you an onion.
It is a moon wrapped in brown paper.
It promises light
like the careful undressing of love.

Here.
It will blind you with tears
like a lover.
It will make your reflection
a wobbling photo of grief.

I am trying to be truthful.

Not a cute card or kissogram.

I give you an onion.
Its fierce kiss will stay on your lips,
possessive and faithful
as we are,
for as long as we are.

Take it.
Its platinum loops shrink to a wedding ring,
if you like.
Lethal.
Its scent will cling to your fingers,
cling to your knife.

-- Carol Ann Duffy