In 2002, Mr. Harnett published the following in the Columbia Review:
After the Vacation
Your white blouse, Carlina,
who ironed it with so much care?
A handkerchief is no fresher,
no better pressed
when returned to a school-mate
borrowed after yesterday’s nose-bleed.
Was it you who took such pains?
Already Fall, Carlina,
and September, Autumn’s May,
time to put back
the capital “L” into love.
Here’s my response:
After the Three Day Weekend
My Ramone cuff, Benjamin,
who paid for it with so much care?
A cuff is no shinier
no better made
when sent late to a customer
who financed your spring line.
Was it you who took my money?
Already late winter, Benjamin
and the Autumn Line has yet to Ship,
time to put back
the capital “N” into now.
After the Vacation
Your white blouse, Carlina,
who ironed it with so much care?
A handkerchief is no fresher,
no better pressed
when returned to a school-mate
borrowed after yesterday’s nose-bleed.
Was it you who took such pains?
Already Fall, Carlina,
and September, Autumn’s May,
time to put back
the capital “L” into love.
Here’s my response:
After the Three Day Weekend
My Ramone cuff, Benjamin,
who paid for it with so much care?
A cuff is no shinier
no better made
when sent late to a customer
who financed your spring line.
Was it you who took my money?
Already late winter, Benjamin
and the Autumn Line has yet to Ship,
time to put back
the capital “N” into now.
Last edited:
)