DINNER AT COURT

DINNER AT COURT

there is something not so
chocolate
about the food tonight

lettuce fronds steamed beans
mashed potatoes roast

you are business man
talking man
man of the black moustache

and you are not so

handsome as my husband—
who sits at home alone

tapping with one finger
his chapped lips— you are

turning red with arrogance

applauding with hands slick as a sea lion’s

forehead glittering like a jewel
king of the wee heart

my glass is empty

pour me the rest of the wine!
only then
do you address me directly:

a true lady asks first
if anyone else at the table

would like some

bottle clenched in your fist like a scepter
I am about to swallow

my torch