There are 243 theories about love.
The first contends that women are like oceans
and men drown in them
so they can reach the coral reefs
where the water kisses the ocean floor.
The second says ripe oranges
are a metaphor for sadness
and only by cutting into them
can the sadness be taken away.
The 243rd whispers in hushed syllables,
Love is a worn-out coat warming
over the fire.