I keep her word
close by
in a jar,
for as any promise
she often means to give it
as a gift
that is deserved
to be returned,

since its glass is to one day be adorned
with a gilder's mortal pursuit of perfection,
and gems for every dimension and memory,
inlaid in part to prove its contents,

but in truth, while bound to conventionally,
its principle surface is inevitably marred
with the rusty red inscriptions
of older lovers' unfortunate fingers.

So it is also sealed
with my lips
to its place
so long as tactfully necessary,
and prudent--as age,
and proper--as she,

and so loudly called for
by all men
who would ask for her word
to be forever kept
when it has not truly been given.

05/12/2008

Author's Note: I like the idioms of giving/keeping one's word or promise; it's antonymic, ironic, and irresistable to play with. Thank you, Faith, for inspiring me to write this one. It may not be about you, but it's for you nonetheless.

Posted on 05/12/2008
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