The good poet sticks to his real loves, to see within the realm of possibility. He never tries to hold hands with God or the human race.

Laughter and grief join hands. Always the heart Clumps in the breast with heavy stride; The face grows lined and wrinkled like a chart, The eyes bloodshot with tears and tide. Let the wind blow, for many a man shall die.

To make the child in your own image is a capital crime, for your image is not worth repeating. The child knows this and you know it. Consequently you hate each other.

Leo Connellan has retained his soul and voice in Provincetown and Other Poems.

Keelhaul the poets in the vestry chairs.

Already old, the question Who shall die? Becomes unspoken Who is innocent?

But with exquisite breathing you smile, with satisfaction of love, And I touch you again as you tick in the silence and settle in sleep.