Never Loved Another Poem by Louise Tredoux

Rudi hanging over my shoulder, laughing
at my old-fashioned wisdom, demanding
what do I know about the frivolous aspects
of making love - I inform him all my skill
derived from him, he says hmm

I shouldn’t call myself an expert because
of lack of experience, jealously I want to
know where he got his, he’s teasing me,
what a beastly thing to do after I sang his
praises long and loud

He reminds me of his colourful youth under
the guidance of older siblings and adventurous
nephews, I feel like kicking the lot of them until
reminding myself Rudi is excellent in bed, he
had to start somewhere

I’d rather it be family than a line of enticing
beauties, I look at him askance, he’s laughing
at me, I’m at a distinct disadvantage, nearly
got left on the shelf, one beloved only, I
thought it would be good for my health

Never practised by stealth as did the others
in my class, waited for my Prince Charming
to open my heart with a kiss, Rudi came into
my life as if on cue, what can I do, I’ve never
loved another, never will do…