poetry pRO
MTTLC 10 years old!
Bucharest visit 2016, 6 poets, CLP, free download
ppf SHOP ONLINE
MEMBERS’ EVENTS
MEMBERS’ COMPS & CALLS May: Frogmore Poetry Prize
see/hear: listen to Patrick Osada reading his poem On the Red Light
At the side
of the porcelain sink
is a cracked jug.
Her thumb splays
across its surface
as she lifts it, bends forward
and thrusts the warm water
over her hair, rubs in the shampoo.
Violets this week.
Makes a great froth
on the top of her head
as she knuckles the lather.
then three lifted jugs
till all turns smooth and black.
Straightens, half naked.
I could swing from the strong balance
of her arms as she rubs and turbans
the towel about her.
Now fresh water
and face to waist
lathered and washed.
I think she must be beautiful.
Finger my own white dress
with the rabbits.
Rub a tuck of its cotton
against the smooth silk of her blouse,
gently touch the lines of stitches,
till she suddenly turns and I step back.
‘Leave it alone.’ she says
but not shouting.