I swear that this town (by the gods up above)
for poets and poetry; they’ve lost all love.
I vow that I’ll venture with stanzas on scrolls
Down south, to seek solace from sensitive souls.
I swear that this town has no style and no taste.
(Don’t cast your pearls here or your words you will waste)
I vow I’ll return when hell’s fires have all froze
Or when dreams and dead men from dust have arose.
I swear that this town of all culture’s been bled
Just walk through the market and hear what is said!
I vow that the poems their poets compile
Though proudly performed will be judged juvenile.
I swear that this town may not be on its own
From North West of England the spirit has flown!
I swear that to beauty those born here are blind;
Become this town’s poet? You’re out of your mind!