i am forced to move
my body & tear-soaked
paper towel so zia margie can sneak
more wine. nonna doesn't cry. doesn't

meet anyone's eyes, pulls
the clothes that pop-pop asked
to be buried in, folds

them neatly
on the stripped mattress. socks on top,
elastic about to be stretched
for the last time. his long underwear

long decided on. my dad has final say
on the tie. three out of six
choose the horse.

12/22/2006

Posted on 12/23/2006
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