(edna)

Finally, I’ve changed
the photos I see.
Putting Edna St. Vincent
Millay away,
in favor of my
friend’s photo.
“French lady with
geraniums,” I call it.
She sits in her garden
bordered by pink blooms.
one hand clasping the
other in her full
lap.
Her skirt pulled
up to the knee.
“Watching the going ons
at the fete.”

She is a pretty
woman still,
one who has
lived well and
been loved.
Who has kept something
back for herself.
Leaving time
in the day
for manicures
and to keep her hair
brushed.

4/16/99