Holly Ball Trellised and Trellised; Next Time, in Rose Velveteen

the quatrillionth cotillion I imagined was mine
I stepped up in ruby patent shoes, a waltz length
gown of snow overlaid with mists.

and perfume at the wrist,
a string of pearls;
a desire to whirl and whirl

all on my own
with the best bouquet of holly,
spray painted gold

my Grandfather ever contrived
and I could dance every waltz
alone

just in love
with being alive and

this near to Christmas on-
the holly berry side.
with snow, light refreshments

and a few lukewarm,
fizzy Coca Colas.

mary angela douglas 17 december 2015