Listen, Elaine!: Poem by Clarence Michael James Stanislaus Dennis

Listen, Elaine. Tho' I'm not mad on racing,
I like a little flutter now and then;
But I maintain you would not be disgracing
The family, or look like some old hen
If you just wore - Now, just a minute, please!
That pinkish frock - No, wait! Let me explain.
That pinkish frock with spots - You wouldn't freeze!
You've got your furs. Aw, listen, please, Elaine!

Now, look. We've twenty pounds. Don't let us quarrel.
(Surely we can be sane and quite grown-up).
If you take most of that, what of the 'moral'
That Percy Podgrass gave us for the Cup?
Of course he's sure to win. What are vain dresses
Compared - My dear! I did not call you vain!
Nor selfish either. Gosh! What married messes
Start over clothes, and - Listen, please, Elaine.

We're partners, aren't we? Well, then, listen, darling.
We might discuss this calmly, don't you think?
Now! Please be sensible ... I am not snarling!
Rubbish! Of course, you do look nice in pink.
I always thought that spotted pink looked dandy,
And comfy, too. Supposing it should rain.
Nice sight you'd look in - What's it called - organdie ...
I was not wishing - Listen, please! Elaine!

Women just dress to spite some other tabby.
Who said you were a cat? One moment, pet.
Of course, I wouldn't have my wife look shabby.
Take what you need. We'll make a smaller bet ...
Eight - ten - twelve quid! Whew! Not much left for betting.
Still, just a flutter and expenses ... What?
Listen, Elaine. What could I be forgetting?
Hat? Stockings? Shoes to match? ... Here!
Take the lot!

Analysis of this poem