“Muse!” I commanded, “Come sit with me,
And tell me what I should write!”
But the Muse grumbled and turned away,
Insolent, disobedient sprite.
“Muse!” I ordered, “Behave yourself!
Come guide my wandering thoughts!”
But the Muse looked at the window, humming,
Refusing to help as she ought.
“Muse!” I insisted, “What insolence!
How dare you ignore my calling!”
Then she got up and walked away,
Which, she knew, I found galling.
Taking a deep breath, I tried again,
“Muse, come back here, please.”
I saw her look around the door-frame,
But then she vanished, unappeased.
“Muse!” I pleaded, “Don’t go too far!
You know I need your assistance!”
At this she reappeared again,
Encouraged, I persisted.
“Muse,” I said, “If it’s alright,
Would you mind helping me out here?”
She re-entered, looking skeptical,
But bent to me her dainty ear.
“Muse,” I said, “I’m sorry I grumped,
Do you know what I should write?”
She smiled and nodded, and I knew,
What she said next would be just right.