Copernicus, Cleveland State and now Pittsburgh

Three poetry anthologies sent out to be heard

The final one has now sent out the name of winner

'Tis not I - it is clear - even tho' my work's not thinner



Someday I am sure I shall get used to rejection

Whether poetry, short story, play or work of fiction

Sometime it will become so much easier to accept

But I don't think I will EVER welcome this cut on neck



The chopping block is always there waiting under my feet

Someday I will just walk through it unto a greater meet

And look back to laugh at those who tend and man it

Because my life will eventually take on a greater plan fit



For a King whose mastery over words in rhyme and prose

Will cry out for a special audience who desire some of those

Works to comfort them and even give great food for thought

As many of these do - for some are not in any way short



On that great quality - love ... which cannot be bought

But is given freely without any kind of condition sought

The way love needs to be ... without any reservation

Which nobody can give willingly if they fear rejection ...



- tristram



6:10pm Saturday November 8th, 1997