HALSTON 53 SHALL I COMPARE THEE

So long as men can breathe or eyes can see,
So long lives this and this gives life to thee.
--Sonnet XVIII, William Shakespeare

To Venus found at Milo nine score years
Ago by Dumont? Thou art softer, warmer
By Far. You try to hide revealing tears
That show your mind is softer, warmer.
To Venus Anadyomene by
J. A. D. Ingres? Thou art covered with
Expensive fabric to foil those who try
To prove that you are certainly a myth.
To Mona Lisa by da Vinci? Thou
Art similar with your facial expression
Expertly worn, proving that you know how
To make that timeless, suave, reserved impression.
And thou hast something added to mortality
Through poetry, which they have--immortality.

HALSTON 53