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.
i love this
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Thanks, Beth. This was a fun one to write.
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Always like this one!
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I’m glad it still appeals!
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Very well done!
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Thanks very much!
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This one still gets me.
“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.”
Superb, Robert.
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Ah, communication! Or lack thereof.
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Oh! I LOVE this poem! It’s wonderful.
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Thank you, Alison!
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Blown away by the message. So true. Thanks Bob.
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I’m so pleased it resonates for you.
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Oh man. First thing I’ve read this morning that really resonated in my bones. Love this. Thank you!
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You’ve made my day. Thank you.
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Love the pig tattoo vibe … such a pleasant read.
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Ha! I’m so pleased this resonates for you.
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