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Green Water


06.30.20 Posted in today's words by

Rose Mary Boehm’s most recent poem to appear here was “Dreaming of Prometheus” (May 2020).

Green Water 
By Rose Mary Boehm

Jacques Fath was a French fashion designer,
one of the three major influences on post-WWII haute couture.

A fragrance for men.  They say
your Green Water’s top notes were
Bergamot, Petitgrain, Lemon, Orange and Peppermint.
How I loved your style, Jacques Fath.
In Mother’s home-sewn I saw it at the dentist’s.
Your latest for Rita Hayworth when she married
Prince Aly Khan.

Green Water for men. They mention
middle notes:  Lavender, Rose, Basil and
Clary Sage. How could you.
And how I loved your creations,
Jacque Fath. I didn’t even know about sex.
Tonka Bean, Musk. The base notes.

You married, Jacques. I checked out
your crinoline skirts. Not a chance.
Green Water for men.
Wide, flowing dresses for Greta Garbo.
Envy became a dull ache and sharp desire.

Your tour of the United States.
Scandalous rumors about Geneviève,
your wife. I did a twirl in front
of the mirror, but my skirt was too short.
Genevieve’s wardrobe: 35 outfits,
17 hats, 16 pairs of shoes, 10 handbags,
4 umbrellas, and numerous other accessories.
They sold you in Neiman Marcus.
“Jacques Fath for Joseph Halpert”.

When I read about your death, I was only
fourteen. You had made your mark.
On me.
It would take many years
before I grew out of me in your image.



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