Nothing

I take a jewel from a junk-shop tray

And wish I had a love to buy it for.

Nothing I choose will make you turn my way.

Nothing I give will make you love me more.

I know that I've embarrassed you too long

And I'm ashamed to linger at your door.

Whatever I embark on will be wrong.

Nothing I do will make you love me more.

I cannot work. I cannot read or write.

How can I frame a letter to implore.

Eloquence is a lie. The truth is trite.

Nothing I say will make you love me more.

So I replace the jewel in the tray

And laughingly pretend I'm far too poor.

Nothing I give, nothing I do or say,

Nothing I am will make you love me more.

-- James Fenton