If not for Maaike, we would never have met that day

where the Animals flopped and cursed their lot

in the aftermath of an afternoon ripping to shreds

the carcass of an old, unloved and despicable novel,

its spine cello taped and flea encrusted as much as the search

for it exhausted us all.

If not for Maaike, the genuine affection found in my first loved

band and in yours also would never have been shared

on a broken bed, caused by several Animals

pretending they were once more young cubs and by our hostess