Salutation (idea)

O generation of the thoroughly smug

and thoroughly uncomfortable,

I have seen fishermen picnicking in the sun,

I have seen them with untidy families,

I have seen their smiles full of teeth,

and heard ungainly laughter.

And I am happier than you are,

And they were happier than I am,

And the fish swim in the lake

and do not even own clothing.

-Ezra Pound (Ripostes, 1912)