Without Pride or Prejudice
a love poem after Jane Austen

More than twenty times have I turned the pages,
cringed at Mrs Bennett, laughed at Mr Collins,
and fallen in love with Lizzy Bennett,
with her sweet archness and her ready wit.

I have loved (and love) many women -
happily and unhappily, shyly and confidently,
women beautiful, intelligent, elegant, and witty -
but you are the first that ever made me think of Lizzy.

I can not recall the hour, or the look, or the words,
which laid the foundation. A pair of fine eyes
in a pretty face? Certainly, and a pleasing grace,
and a friendly smile for someone a little out of place.

But it is that mixture of sweetness and archness
which set the seal - a lively, playful spirit
and a wicked tongue, matched with an innocence
which disarms, an openness which bars offense.

It is almost enough to make me wish I had
a fine, tall person, handsome features, noble mien
and ten thousand (1812 pounds) a year.
But I am not forward, have no fear.

I am content with what you choose to give:
perhaps to throw a smile across the room;
perhaps to share a humorous inspiration -
to accept, I hope, my friendship and affection.

for Rita, April 1996

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