2023, Ohio River Valley Literature, the no-scape, Working Class Literature

preparing for a funeral

can’t find my tie. only own one
which is how often it get gets
wrapped around my neck.

there’s even a story behind that tie:
paid too much for it buying my wedding suit
because nerves made me an easy mark
on a slow night at Men’s Wearhouse.

at one point wasn’t sure my suit even still fit
but finally reminded myself I’m not fatter
just older and shit moves around.

wore a polo shirt to a bat mitzvah
because I assumed the suit wouldn’t fit.

only own one tie because seriously, like a suit
what human needs more than one noose?

there are other masks to wear at funerals,
plenty in my pocket.

them I didn’t have to buy.

Standard