Ode to Boyle

Why, you ask?

I will shout at you loud
And louder still, if that’s what it takes
For you to stop listening

I will stifle your silence always
And longer still, if that’s what it takes
For you to speak

I will pull the chair from under you, once
Twice, thrice, if that’s what it takes
For you to stand

I will spit on your reflection wet
And wetter yet, if that’s the only way
You will stop looking

I will choke you time
And time again, if that’s the only way
You will start breathing

I will force your legs open wide
And wider still, if that’s the only way
You can give birth to yourself

Why, you ask?

Because I love you.

Poet's Notes: Although this posting is very much late, this poem is dedicated to Peter Boyle who, amongst a hundred other successful roles, played Frank Barone in Everybody Loves Raymond. Tough love was his policy, and love it still is. Rest in peace.