Retro Rat Race

In the 1970’s Rat Race,

I left my “Womanly place”.

Hands bloodied by self sacrifice.

Unwoven hem, bursting seams;

Of a dress keeping me up right.

A Dress, A Cage, A gown of White

Gown if white;

Shredded, catching wind and flight.

The doves cage,

Just a shattered, broken plight

Swabbies, swing from side to side

Extenuating my stride.

Below the breathless brazier ,

The tingle of bell sleeves rings clear

I am a Threat

In the 1970’s Rate race

My strength dare not waver.

I bear a mothers toll.

I’ll whisk them away, betting my soul;

This silent night will play my favor.

The tower of life, withered and cracked

A store of secrets, long since forgotten

Under a cloak of bract

I reside, family, intact.

I won a 1970’s Rat Race.

Through his fingers I slide.

The Alcoholic patriarchal state,

Had met a damning date.

I stitched my cage of pearls and white

Strut into the trap, eyes shut tight.

When the arm came down

I turned around

In a 1970’s Rat Race

I made my own place.

-Inspired by Grandma Rita, I will always love you.