Doll Translation No. 1

dolly has got at last something to say
she of the apple pink cheeks the
realistically rooted hair

her arms always a little outstretched.
she doesn't like the dress she came in
she wants a new one right away

she's tired of staring at the wall all day
when you go out to play in the snow
and of being thrown back into the doll crib

when you have to stop playing really fast
because you're sposed to be
taking a nap

and here comes Grandmother
down the hall in her spooky scuffling slippers
to check on you

and you don't want to get in trouble

do you, never mind that
you just gave your favorite doll
the worst headache she's ever had.

when you threw her up against
that Giant hard plastic Baby.

oh yes.
and she's sick of pretend blueberry muffins.
o.k.?

she wants steak.

mary angela douglas 19 december 2015