Serious Water

what I would have said if I said what I meant
has to be considered optional optical adaptable
to changing conditions can't count on things
continuing indefinitely participial the language
never less adequate to describe the situation

what I would have meant if I meant anything
I said what I thought would work under these
restraints trade barriers unforgiven misdeeds
in another country I would be in serious water
wonders whether a real question can be asked