Skin

Sideburns and wide wale cords
Creepers under belt buckle brass
   that spells “The Doors”
Paisley with collar wide
Big bangs with sculpted curls that
   must be blow dried

And skin
   So pale and warm
Within
   Away from harm

Nose ring and dyed-black hair
Tank top with puzzle text that
   invites men to stare
Lime green such a mini skirt
High tops they’re covered up in
   paint but no dirt

And skin
   Embracing nipple brown
Stretched to grin
   Still its eider down

Skin
   Your outside
Tucks you in
   And open wide

Blue jeans and wallet chain
Dress shirt thin blue stripes
   and a pocket stain
Steel toes and bracelet spikes
Crew cut assorted tattoos of bands
   that she likes

On her skin
   The starting line
The tip of your nose
   Your bare behind


© 2008 Billie Burke Estate