A Cheese Omelet at Midnight
You can’t ever leave without saying something,
no matter how insipid. That sweater looks good
on you. It’s supposed to rain tomorrow. I’m sorry
I burned the omelet. Nasdaq has plunged 3%
since last week. And I, in return, can’t let you go without
replying in equal measure. It matches your eyes. I love
to smell rain in August. That cheddar was delicious.
Maybe I’ll start a savings account. Next month.
So I wash dishes when you’re gone, wipe down the
counters, pour salt into the shaker, grab a book, join my
cat in bed. This tune’s been overplayed, the grooves’re
worn down. Maybe next time I’ll say what I mean,
tell you what I want: It would look better in a heap
on the floor. How about a shower here, tonight? Kiss
me and I’ll never think of it again. I don’t give a rat’s
ass about the stock exchange. Step away from that door!
I’ll make your lunch, butter your 7-grain toast, assemble
your IKEA furniture, balance your books, even dye
my hair pink, tattoo a pig on my thigh and drink light beer
in your honor, if you would agree to say what’s on your
mind. On second thought, don’t. Tell me, instead,
what I want to hear, but make it heart-felt. Truthful
and direct. Poached but earnest. Hard-boiled but tender.
I’ll cook your eggs. Invest in me. You’ll earn interest.
* * *
This originally appeared in August 2015, as the 25th offering in the Tupelo Press 30-30 fund raiser. Thank you, Pleasant Street, for sponsoring this.
O at the Edges 
Lovely.
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Thank you, Alison!
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Fabulous, 5-Star, BRAVO!!
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You are so kind. Thank you!
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Sincere, rather than kind 🙂 You’re welcome.
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This is 5 star. I remember loving it the first time I read it. Still do.
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Thanks, Leslie. It was a fun one to write.
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Oh the frustration this exposes … the joy of laughing at same!
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I’ve lived that life, but have learned in recent times to voice needs and desires. It sure makes a difference.
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Truth! Do you ever read poems from years ago and smile to see growth? It’s exciting
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Mostly I grimace, but occasionally a smile pops up. 🙂 But yes, it is exciting to see growth.
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“Tell me what I want to hear, but make it heart-felt”…isolate that line and you have the essence of teenage ‘love’.LOL!
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Ha! You are so right!
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Oh, the things left unsaid. Often, until too late.
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So true!
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Oh yes! And so poignantly wise.
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It’s taken a lifetime, but I’ve learned to speak up!
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Love this, you really have a great way with words 🙂
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Thank you very much!
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A favorite poem, inspired by a favorite poet!
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Thanks, Sunshine. It was a fun one to write.
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There should be a ‘LOVE’ button. Excellent writing, Robert.
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You are so kind, Frances. Thank you.
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Adorable
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Thank you!
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