The Empson factor
with a nod to Dylan

Whatever else, I must make one thing clear
Because you may detect the signs as well.
I do not know why Empson must appear

Like some poetic ghost, raised by the mere
Suggestion of this verse—like Pavlov's bell.
Whatever else, I must make one thing clear:

It happens every time I get my brain in gear
And set my mind to write a villanelle.
I do not know why Empson must appear

As if his waste remained, instilling fear.
His Missing Dates, of course, had cast its spell
Whatever else. But let's get one thing clear:

He doesn't chide or question me or sneer,
Just lurks—a challenge to create as well.
I do not know why Empson must appear

To have control in my poetic sphere.
The trouble is, I don't want to rebel.
Whatever else, I must make one thing clear:
I'm glad that Empson does not disappear.

Envoi
OK, it's not just Empson prods my plight.
That bloody Welshman makes his presence felt.
He rages on about the failing of the light—
Verbose and orotund, that drunken Celt.