To Anne, September Fifteenth

To Anne, September Fifteenth
(Le 22 Septembre)
(Andrew Kelly)

One September Fifteenth you packed up and deserted
And on each anniversary of that date aforesaid
I'd weep copious tears – in your memory Anne.
Well the day's come once more but my heart is like granite
And there's not more drop left to fall from my eyelids,

On September Fifteenth now, I just don't – give a damn!
Nevermore will you see when the dead leaves are falling
That poor soul just the least bit like me and recalling
The deep grief of each leaf – in your memory Anne.
When I hear the September Song sung my heart hardens
Don't ask me to help sweep up the leaves in your garden,

On September Fifteenth now, I just don't – give a damn!
In the past, arms outspread to make wings, I would follow
On the way to the skies as if chasing the swallow
Nearly breaking my neck – in your memory Anne.
That's all over my Icarus complex is not on
And one swallow's departure does not mean it's Autumn,

On September Fifteenth now, I just don't – give a damn!
I've religiously kept your bouquet by my fireplace
Everlasting flowers tied with your ribbons and old lace
That I'd water with tears – in your memory Anne.
Now I'm going to lay them on someone's grave, fondly,
Since eternal regret is a thing that's beyond me:

On September Fifteenth now, I just don't – give a damn!
From now what remains of my heart will march gladly
To the Equinox, keeping in step, and not sadly
With irregular pace –in your memory Anne:
For the fire has died and there's no more heat left but
A faint glow in the ash not enough to roast chestnuts

On September Fifteenth now, I just don't – give a damn!
Though it's sad to be no longer sad – without Anne.