2000/phony

I watch a woman
across the store
who turns out to be
someone I know.
Which I realize
when she gets closer.
She had more appeal
on the other side
of the room.
Seemed slightly European,
well-adjusted & personable,
the kind of woman
who has a cute kid.
When I realize who she is,
I know it has all been a show.
A phony who works the room,
who would not hesitate
to use her child
for her own ends,
to call attention
to herself,
wearing him like jewelry,
one of those women whose
children are trophies,
a way they get
to talk so loudly that
we all have to hear.

1/5/00