For a Favorite Granddaughter
Never love a simple lad, Guard against a wise, Shun a timid youth and sad, Hide from haunted eyes. Never hold your heart in pain For an evil-doer; Never flip it down the lane To a gifted wooer. Never love a loving son, Nor a sheep astray; Gather up your skirts and run From a tender way. Never give away a tear, Never toss and pine; Should you heed my words, my dear, You're no blood of mine! --Dorothy Parker
The Collected Poetry of Dorothy Parker, Dorothy Parker, 1936