birdnest soup

Before I go to visit you
In your room above the city
(make no mistake, it's intellectual, purely!)
My friends discuss with me
What I’m to wear and say and bring

I say, decisively: I won’t wear earrings.

But you always do, they cry.
I frown, fumble, pull my mouth and mumble
myself wondering why.
Um, he … knew me before
When I’d only pierced one side
....besides…
I don’t want to look like I’m … trying,
especially in front of his girl.
Sighs.

But truth: when you see me
I wonder will you see
I came to you thus slightly naked.

December 2008