Clever Poems About Love

Love has been a timeless muse for poets throughout the ages. From Shakespearean sonnets to modern free verse, poets have explored the depths and complexities of love. However, some poets have taken a clever approach, using wit, wordplay, and a touch of humor to capture the essence of love in their poems. These clever poems about love not only evoke laughter but also offer a fresh perspective on the most powerful emotion. In this article, we will explore a few examples of such clever poems that will leave you smiling and pondering the intricacies of love.

1. "Love After Love" by Derek Walcott

Love After Love by Derek Walcott is a clever poem that celebrates the idea of self-love and rediscovery. Through the use of vivid imagery and metaphors, Walcott urges the reader to embrace themselves and find love within.

The time will come
when, with elation
you will greet yourself arriving
at your own door, in your own mirror,
and each will smile at the other’s welcome,
and say, sit here. Eat.
You will love again the stranger who was yourself.

This poem cleverly reminds us that before we can truly love another person, we must first love ourselves.

2. "Sonnet 130" by William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare was a master of clever wordplay, and Sonnet 130 is a prime example of his wit. In this sonnet, Shakespeare playfully mocks the conventional love poems of his time, which often idealized the beloved's appearance. Instead, he presents a more realistic and honest portrayal of love.

My mistress’ eyes are nothing like the sun;
Coral is far more red than her lips’ red;
If snow be white, why then her breasts are dun;
If hairs be wires, black wires grow on her head.

Shakespeare's clever use of comparisons highlights the imperfections and celebrates the genuine love he feels for his mistress, transcending the superficial ideals of beauty.

3. "This Is Just to Say" by William Carlos Williams

This Is Just to Say by William Carlos Williams is a short, clever poem that captures the essence of a playful apology. It explores the dynamics of love and relationships through a simple note left on the kitchen table.

I have eaten
the plums
that were in
the icebox

and which
you were probably
saving
for breakfast

Forgive me
they were delicious
so sweet
and so cold

The cleverness of this poem lies in its simplicity and the way it captures the mischievousness and love within a domestic relationship.

Clever poems about love breathe new life into the age-old theme of romance. Through their wit and wordplay, poets find unique ways to express the intricacies of love, making us smile, think, and reflect on the various dimensions of this powerful emotion. From celebrating self-love to playfully mocking conventional ideals, these poems remind us that love is not always straightforward. So, the next time you want to explore the world of love through poetry, seek out the clever verses that will not only touch your heart but also tickle your intellect.