This is my favorite poem.


Siren Song

This is the one song everyone would like to learn
the song that is irresistible
the song that forces men
to leap overboard in squadrons
even though they see beached skulls

the song nobody knows
because anyone who had heard it
is dead, and the others can’t remember.

Shall I tell you the secret
and if I do, will you get me
out of this bird suit?
I don’t enjoy it here
squatting on this island
looking picturesque and mythical
with these two feathery maniacs,

I don’t enjoy singing
this trio, fatal and valuable.
I will tell the secret to you,
to you, only to you.

Come closer.
This song is a cry for help
Help me!
Only you, only you can,
you are unique at last.
Alas it is a boring song
but it works every time.

Margaret Atwood