So
By John Herlihy

Why do we end up still using the word “so”,
Holding it up in defiance of all that we know.
We drag it around with us as if it were in tow;
We sprinkle it around, its blessing to bestow.
We add it like spice to phrases so they may grow;
For emphasis, the word accumulates like snow.
When wanting to be precise, we say “just so”.
When wanting to give reasons, we utter “so”.
As a declaration we say “so” like a maddened crow;
When in wonder, we say “so” like a frightened doe.
“So” can ask a question to pull like an undertow;
Often, it adds up to nothing, tripping on the toe.
So what, so long, oh so distant and so very near,
“So” adds extra edge to make things more dear.
As a stand-alone, no expectations, a useless beau,
The word “so” says very little, with nothing to show.