Jackie Moss |
WEDDING GUEST |
Small town church, Coal Center, Pennsylvania
She sat on Bride's side
I sat across and behind
Bleach white tendrils
slithered
down
her back
a limp death crawl
to her waist
55, 56 or older
The black back of bodice,
cut and slashed
Peep show curtain
for dragon tattoos
Full-length black opera gloves
Covered her arms
Factory worker’s fingers bared
A rhinestone cuff’s
glittering width
rested on pew
prayer books pressed into knees
My eyes should be on the bride
As she vows
To honor and obey
I can’t keep my eyes off
The lady in black
Stoned out and
nodding
a basement steps smile
Stealing the light from the bride

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