Reasons For Attendance

The trumpet's voice, loud and authoritative,

Draws me a moment to the lighted glass

To watch the dancers - all under twenty-five -

Solemnly on the beat of happiness.

- Or so I fancy, sensing the smoke and sweat,

The wonderful feel of girls. Why be out there ?

But then, why be in there? Sex, yes, but what

Is sex ? Surely to think the lion's share

Of happiness is found by couples - sheer

Inaccuracy, as far as I'm concerned.

What calls me is that lifted, rough-tongued bell

(Art, if you like) whose individual sound

Insists I too am individual.

It speaks; I hear; others may hear as well,

But not for me, nor I for them; and so

With happiness. Therefor I stay outside,

Believing this, and they maul to and fro,

Believing that; and both are satisfied,

If no one has misjudged himself. Or lied.