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Classic and Contemporary Poetry
MENAGE, by LESLIE NELSON JENNINGS
First Line: Blinds down!' they cry
Last Line: Open to the sky.
Subject(s): Gossip; Neighbors
First Line: Blinds down!' they cry
Last Line: Open to the sky.
Subject(s): Gossip; Neighbors
"Blinds down!" they cry,
Mouthing me ancient shibboleths.
They say: If one lived alone
It would be different.
But I cannot understand;
I will not hide my thoughts.
Let them be lithe girls,
Combing their hair
Perpetually;
Let them be happy and idle
In their clear white muslin shifts.
There they stand
For all the world to see,
Graciously domestic.
Oh yes,
I know how this revolts them,—
My neighbors who dwell in splendid,
empty houses;
Because they are outraged,
Shall I also live in loneliness?
Let them say that I keep mistresses,
That I am shameless.
Nevertheless,
My windows shall remain
Open to the sky.
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