Henry Wright

Henry Wright - photo by Nigel A.  JAMES

An extra Poem for May. Henry Wright, the British author, lives with his wife in Vienna. Having spent most of his life in the scientific field, Henry’s work tends to concentrate on more serious matters. But, the small phrase, “tends to”, clearly means that there is another side, too. In fact, Henry’s “other side” consists of very humorous writings and poetry. The following is one of his best.

                                               ILL-ADVISED ADVISER



                                     “It’s good to eat,” observed the duck
                                      While seeking grass to munch,
                                     “Whatever could we do instead
                                      When time comes round for lunch?”


                                      The dandelion with mournful look
                                       Replied a bit put out,
                                      “I see your point, I do indeed,
                                       But I can’t move about”.


                                      The duck was taken by surprise
                                      To hear a flower speak,
                                      The place where one expects a mouth
                                      Were petals but no beak.


                                     “You won’t grow up a healthy duck”,
                                      The weed went on to say,
                                      “Unless you have your vitamins
                                       And minerals each day”.


                                      The duck was piqued to think a plant
                                      As lowly as a weed,
                                      Presumed to give advice to her
                                      On what she ought to feed.


                                     “What use are you?” she cried enraged,
                                     “Stuck always in one spot?
                                      You cannot fly or walk or swim
                                      And talk such tommyrot”.

                     
                                     “I landed here by parachute,”
                                     The weed replied with heat,
                                     “And ever since produced the food
                                     That you should daily eat”.


                                    “Forgive me for my hasty words,”
                                    The duck replied contrite,
                                    “I’ll follow your advice at once
                                    Because I’m sure you’re right.


                                    “I’m sorry we must part this way
                                    So that I may survive”.
                                    With that she opened wide her beak
                                    And ate the weed alive!