Adrienne Rich

Women

My three sisters are sitting
On rocks of black obsidian.
For the first time, in this light, I can see who they are.

My first sister is sewing her costume for the procession.
She is going as the Transparent lady
And all her nerves will be visible

My second sister is also sewing,
At the seam over her heart which has never healed entirely
At last, She hopes, this tightness in her chest will ease

My third sister is gazing
At a dark-red crust spreading westward far out on the sea.
Her stockings are torn but she is beautiful.

Adrienne Rich


Men

My two brothers and father are lying
On the couch of never ending depth.
For the last time at this time of night, I can vision the colors of their aura.

My first brother is talking about some form of democracy.
He is known as the Front man
And he will be discovered in this silent world.

My second brother is zoning through the TV.
Looking for some one to love not in this world,
But a name through the pixel screen.

My father is watching and listening
To every movement and word that leaves us.
He may be forgetful but he is wonderful.


Dorothy Meier
By Adrienne Rich