I look like I’m 6 years old if I don’t have facial hair
but if I try to grow a full beard the mustache part looks nasty
I’m scatterbrained
that’s why I just noticed that I used “I’m” instead of “I am” in this poem
except for the baby fat line
but that was done for emphatic effect
my neck is really long so I tilt my head down to compensate
I don’t shower every day
my teeth have gaps in between them
I get terrible morning breath even after a nap
my hair looks stupid no matter what I do with it
my jokes offend people
I test the waters when there is a thermometer next to me
If I had studied science as much as I watched wrestling
I would be on the moon right now
none of my hobbies are worthwhile
I give most of my effort to menial tasks
I’m forgetful
I’m not creative enough to come up with any more self-criticisms
I wouldn’t die for me
but it’s okay
when death’s grimy teeth
smile
their sun colored smile
at you
and
the realization
dawns
that you are merely
an early afternoon snack
for its barbed wire jaws
remember
I wouldn’t die for you
either
Maxwell Baumbach’s poem 1950s Romance appeared at vox poetica in February 2011.
Wow! I’m exhausted. Poor thing. I loved-
I am incessantly hugged by my baby fat.
Then you gave us two poems. The last 13 lines. 🙂
Wow, I like this. Very clever.
Thanks to both of you! This is a piece that means a lot to me.