Earth (for Greer)

“What planet would you like?” we asked

She said “I’m fond of Earth,

With all its freight of greening life

Its mulch of death and birth.

It’s warm and close and bursting out

With fellowship and cheer

The rest are cold and splendid

As they sail on through the sphere.

Distant as destinations

The beacons of the sky

Revealing chilly splendors 

As our robots pass them by.

They’re beautiful, but lacking

In plays and art and mirth

And kindly human pleasures — 

Yes, I think I’ll opt for Earth!”