A Second Pym Poem

I've been thinking it would be cool to write a little sequence of poems using text from Barbara Pym's novels if for no other reason than to encourage people to read her work. Usually I don't write found poems from other published creative works--I use postcards or advertisements or other work that wasn't crafted to stick around. But I just like her work so much that I'm enjoying sharing little pieces of it in poem form.

Anyway! Here's a second little poem inspired by Jane and Prudence, this one from chapter 17.

After a Small Dinner Party

Nothing seems real, Prudence thought.
Tea under the walnut tree tomorrow

and then what? "Have you got
something nice to read?" Jane asked.

"Yes, thank you. A novel."

"And you have a book of poems
if your novelist should fail to charm or soothe."

I am drained of all emotion, Prudence thought.
"I think I'm quite ready for bed."