I’ve learned not to long for things
Not out loud anyway
In case it makes the pixies
Remember what a sense of humour is
And execute some swift response at my expense.
I’ll keep shtum, lips pressed together
Heart beating lightly and perhaps
I’ll permit me an inkling of
Something in my mind’s eye.
It feels fake to be needy when
I have more than many.
But when I’m sure the pixies are sleeping
Or elsewhere making their special brand of mischief
I might open a magazine or click on a link
I might just allow myself to think
Oh about what?
Shhhhh!
I like how this poem turns the title and speaks not about what is longed for but about what is never spoken. Each line feeds into the idea that a voiced longing is like a birthday wish; it won’t come true if it’s spoken. Your lines also feed into the twist you’ve established. I particularly like the contrast in the image of humorous pixies, usually seen as cute and fun, executing and making mischief with the speaker’s desires..
The only thing I would change is to take away this line: “Oh about what?” because I don’t think you need to ask this question. The last line makes the point all by itself.
Thanks for this, I was also wondering about that line. Thank you for your suggestion. Helps me to edit it.