poetry texts, poem archive at plagiarist.com

Words as plain as hen-birds' wings 
Do not lie, 
Do not over-broider things - 
Are too shy. 

Thoughts that shuffle round like pence 
Through each reign, 
Wear down to their simplest sense 
Yet remain. 

Weeds are not supposed to grow 
But by degrees 
Some achieve a flower, although 
No one sees. 

Added: 24 Jun 2002 | Last Read: 7 Sep 2026 11:00 AM | Viewed: 8494 times

A PoetryNotes™ Analysis of Modesties by Philip Larkin, is Available!

A PoetryNotes™ eBook is available for this poem for delivery within 24 hours, and usually available within minutes during normal business hours.

ON SALE - only $29.95 19.95!

For more information...