1.

I do not seek to find a feathered nest

wherein a cosy love-bird softly coos,

with lifted wing to show a downy breast -

the kind of nook a parasite might choose.

I’ll take my women for a pleasure cruise

for just as long as they have need of me.

They’ll bear my children, and my name they’ll use -

if that’s the way that they would have it be.

Amongst the crowd that makes a family,

the man is nothing but an honoured guest,

retaining individuality

within the broader social interest.

Ideally, his function with the state

assumes importance greater than his mate.

2.

The woman whom the future shall applaud

must steer a boat for all the family.

Untrammelled by a wedded overlord,

she’ll be supported by society.

o display such eminently officer-like qualities, my sense of humour was soon impaired. in matrimonial simplicity.

Be satisfied that I can love you well

in stronger terms than bondages can spell.