Ring Lardner Typescript with Holograph Note by Fitzgerald

Fitzgerald replied-

You combed Third Avenue last year

For some small gift that was not too dear

—Like a candy cane or a worn out truss—

 To give to a loving friend like us

You’d found gold eggs for such wealthy hicks

 As the Edsell Fords and the Pittsburgh Fricks

The Andy Mellons, the Teddy Shonts

The Coleman T. and Pierre duPonts

But not one gift to brighten our hoem

—So I’m sending you back your God damn poem.

(F. Scott Fitzgerald Poems, p. 140)

Found at: http://www.sc.edu/fitzgerald/facts/10/lardner_christmas_poem.html

"Sonnet in the Shape of a Potted Christmas Tree" by George Starbuck

While I absolutely loath writing sonnets... I won't deny that spending a few moments with a well written sonnet is a lovely way to start the week. Plus, this cleverly shaped one seemed highly appropriate to pass along since Christmas is only a few days away!!! Enjoy!

Sonnet in the Shape of a Potted Christmas Tree
by George Starbuck

O
fury-
bedecked!
O glitter-torn!
Let the wild wind erect
bonbonbonanzas; junipers affect
frostyfreeze turbans; iciclestuff adorn
all cuckolded creation in a madcap crown of horn!
It’s a new day; no scapegrace of a sect
tidying up the ashtrays playing Daughter-in-Law Elect;
bells! bibelots! popsicle cigars! shatter the glassware! a son born
now
now
while ox and ass and infant lie
together as poor creatures will
and tears of her exertion still
cling in the spent girl’s eye
and a great firework in the sky
drifts to the western hill.

Found at: http://www.poetryfoundation.org/poetrymagazine/poem/23321