wouldn't I be human less

[joel]

What else is there for time to verse but loves—
my honest, eager question and reply:
is anything more worthy? And I hope
you tell me Yes because I’m lost and drained
and disillusioned— all the same
my words have been inadequate to quit
whatever deepest urge I sense that drives
my hand compelled, investigating lives
that intersect in passions bathed in spit
and piss and vinegar and wine and lame
attempts to stay afloat. Had I refrained
from sentimental exercises’ slope
to sheer hilarity, yet wouldn’t I
be human less for its avoidance, Love’s?