A Dedication

by Rudyard Kipling — a poem card from Justes Mots

A dedicatory poem comparing the speaker's humble creative work to precious gems, asserting that love—not material value—gives art meaning. The speaker offers their creations (and anguish) to a beloved, asking validation rather than praise. Suitable for weddings, anniversaries, or gift-giving contexts emphasizing love's transformative power over artistry.

And they were stronger hands than mine
That digged the Ruby from the earth,
More cunning brains that made it worth
The large desire of a king,
And stouter hearts that through the brine
Went down the perfect Pearl to bring.

Lo, I have wrought in common clay…

Themes: love · new-baby · wedding · friendship