the poetry of Charles Fry

11 October 1995

Dear Family,

Bought a new stocking cap today.
Wanted my brother to try it on first but he could not come.
Waiting on the other side of some cold, dark ocean.
I pull it down tight over my ears even though we sit inside.
Look at these faded walls and dirty curtains.
They are so thin;
someone could stand outside and look in at us.
That's why I pull it tight over my ears --
because it is so soft and warm.
Like her hand that once I held X
but no, how could I hold it?
that once held me -- like her gentle smile.
If I accidentally pull it down over my eyes too,
do not think it is because I am blind.
I can see well enough through those
small spaces between each piece of yarn.
It is a light stocking cap.

Copyright © 1995 Charles Fry