Retributions

they didn't die off dammit.
their beautiful ghosts are still there.
sitting in your chairs that used

to be theirs the ones in rose velour.
they want you to stop eating potato chips
and scattering them everywhere.

you will not banish them by thinking
now it's all your stage.
you'd better get used to it

they're out there trimming the rose hedges
as we speak, the ones their ancestors planted
and plotting how you'll wind up on the street

for smirking at your tacky tea parties
boo hoo so sad too bad they're all deceased.
and I'm the sole owner now.

watch out for that pier glass and how
where theyve long been known too  suddenly

to appear each time you comb your hair.
beware. they're out there still.
they always will be, see.

while you're hiding in the tv rumpus room
with all yur degrees.

they'll soon be tearing it out while you're asleep
that pumpkin coloured carpet you're so fond of...
with the olive accents.

mary angela douglas 10 may 2018