Caught in a climate
so callous and cold,
Born of a bearing
benumbing and bold,
There is a pause
that defies winter's way
Known unto people
as Valentine's Day.
Not in the summer
when weather is warm,
Not in the season
that's senseless to storm,
Not when the birds and
the blooms are their best —-
No, it arrives when the
days are distressed.
This is symbolic:
a heart where it shows,
Melting for others
their mantle of snows,
Giving life's ribs
an affectionate shove.
Such is the soul
and the substance of love.
Margaret Rorke (1915-2000) wrote poetry that was regularly published on the editorial pages of The Saginaw News (2,824 different poems in all). From 1975 through 1990, approximately 400 of her poems were featured in Judd Arnett’s column in The Detroit Free Press, and her poetry appeared in countless other settings throughout her lifetime.
The digital edition of her 4,000 published poems as well as her three books of poetry have recently been added to the Library of Congress's collection of American poetry.
Download or print any poem from this website and email or send it to friends or family members. It will brighten their day!
Hang up a poem that inspires you somewhere in your home where you’ll see it often, and it will bring you joy every day!
Many of Margaret’s poems tickle the funny poem, and your children are sure to enjoy them. Make them a bedtime read!
Margaret Rorke published over 4,000 poems in her lifetime. If you are looking for a poem on a particular topic, please fill out the form here, and her daughter, Peg, and son, Bob, will be in touch with what they can find.