Oliver's Poem

GREETING

I will not lumber you with love
nor climb on you to measure you for sins
nor wipe you over with foregivenesses
nor kick your shins.

I know your eyes do not see out of mine
nor are your tears the tears I shed
but I don't care,
for I will take your hand and make a place for you,
because you're there.

Not for some complicated ploy
of pity, piety or private greeds
but for an older, simpler joy,
that, nothing wanting, nothing needs,
except to live.

for, as I see you feel the rain and breathe the air,
so just to know the sun that shines on you
shines on me too.
confirms the sunlight,
makes it sure,
tells us we live, are there.
that now will do,

and asks no more.

Oliver Postgate 1979