On Wearing a Murse

I see the wary, self-satisfied leer as you approach
     because I carry on my right shoulder
     the expensive leather bag my wife gave me
     for Christmas three years ago
     when the doctor said “Don’t put stuff
     in your hip pockets!”
Stuff, it seems, forces one’s spine to shift
     In ways spines are not supposed to shift.
Your sneer tells me you think it so *****
    for a man to carry a purse –
    [deep inside you may wish you had one]
My sweet, loving, caring wife has been gone
     now for two lonely years,
Only special memories I have remain, like when
I said, “Are you kidding? I can’t go around
     carrying that thing over my shoulder!”
“I do,” she said.
She packed everything I could possibly ever need 
     wallet, checkbook, toothpicks,
     fingernail clippers, pens and pencils 
Proudly she walked beside me
     while I learned
     to carry my murse
     with confidence.	
So, when I see you sneer
     I say to myself, “What’s it to you, jerk!”
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Delaney Avatar
November 11, 2020 at 4:50 AM
I do relate to this one as I wish my hubby would carry a ‘man-bag.’ He is always leaving his wallet or glasses or something behind. There should be no shame in handling the things you need to have with you. Good one. SuZ
One Avatar
November 4, 2020 at 3:15 PM
Lol... That's funny
Hankins Avatar
November 4, 2020 at 3:38 PM
Thanks, Silent One. I always enjoy your reactions!
Downing  Avatar
November 4, 2020 at 2:08 PM
Hahaha... this is so good, I truly enjoyed it :)
Hankins Avatar
November 4, 2020 at 3:14 PM
Thanks, Akkina, so much. I had no idea when I wrote this that the word "queer" was no longer acceptable to use. I was really surprised to see the asterisks! Oh well, live and learn! Again, thanks!
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace