Burlap and Satin
“You’re burlap and satin; you’re leather and lace,”
the bride-to-be’s mother said. “He’s a disgrace!
Break up with him. It’s not too late to save face.
He’s our neighbor’s farmhand. He should know his place.”
Her dad said, “He’s not in your league, can’t you see?
If you marry, think of how poor you will be.
You’ll not get one cent from your mother and me.
Go give back that cheap little ring and be free.”
The daughter cried, “No, I’ll give you up instead
if I must. I know what my grandparents said
to you, Dad. They thought you were out of your head
to want a rich, pampered girl. ‘Not her,’ they pled.
And, Mom, how did Grandma and Grandfather feel
when they met my Dad-to-be? Did he appeal
to them as a good choice? YOU said they had real
concerns. He seemed somewhat rough. So you would steal
away to get married. Your choices were right.
THAT—they now admit. Though you’re happy and quite
successful, as newlyweds you had to fight
your folks’ disapproval, and money was tight.
We’re burlap and satin—as once were you two!
Our future will have a much rosier hue
if you bid your coldness—and not US—adieu!
We don’t want your money. Your blessing will do!”
Date:March 12, 2018
Contest Title: Burlap and Satin
Sponsor: Anthony Slausen placed 5th of 10
February 24, 2019, entered in Mark Toney's Poetry Marathon, Mile 21
June 21, 2019, entered in Brian Strand's contest Your Choice (12) Love Verse
June 5, 2021
entered in Anthony Biaanco's $ Contest placed 8th (of ten placements)
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