Not Even Not Zen 354: Poem - True Love, the Scam

While I was sitting at a wedding, listening to the vows, I started writing new vows in my head. A few whispered words from my wife made me decide on a particular poet. I tried to write for myself in that style. So for me, the ceremony was entertaining but I ended up with this confusing set of vows in my head.

I hope someday, someone will get married to this. 

True Love, the Scam

Would you take this spouse to bed?

Will you take this ring to wed? 

It might seem selfish, could be dumb

But I've liked my lonely freedom.

Would you be the lock and key? 

Stay together and still be free? 

If somehow I could be free

I would keep the lock with me.

Would you love their long pea coat? 

Would you love them in a boat? 

Boats may cause me to be sick.

Coats are itchy and too thick. 

Would you together make a house?

Can you, can you, be a spouse?

Will you shout a love primeval?

Would you dare a love illegal?

Well, if you give, to me, the ring

I think I'll dare most anything.

For damn, I am.

Damn, I Am.

In love.

Yes, I love you here and there. 

I will love you everywhere.

I will love you in a box.

I will love you. You’re a fox.

I swear my love upon a star.

I will love you near and far.

Say, I have fallen for the scam.

I am in love, damn me, I am. 

And I will love your long pea coat.

And I will love you in a boat.

And I will kiss you in the rain.

And in the dark. And on a plane.

And in the car. And in a tree.

Your kisses are so good, you see!

Yes! The box unlocks

And we'll be free

And I will love you more, you'll see.

Holding hands till we go gray

We'll increase our love each day.

I can love this stupid house.

I can be, with you, a spouse.

Yes, I love you here and there.

I will love you everywhere.

I do so like

this true love scam.

Damn it,

Damn it,

Damn, I am.

In love.

-- Eric Gallagher, 2024 (at Megan's wedding to Nate)