The poem
I wish I had a simple style In writing verse, As in his prose had Ernie Pyle, So true and terse; Springing so forthright from the heart With guileless art.
I wish I could put back a dram As Ernie could; I wish that I could cuss and damn As soldier should; And fain with every verse would I Ernie outvie.
Alas! I cannot claim his high Humanity; Nor emulate his pungent, dry Profanity; Nor share his love of common folk Who bear life's yolk.
Oh Ernie, who on earth I knew In war and wine, Though frail of fame, in soul how you Were pure and fine! I'm proud that once when we were plastered You called me 'bastard.'