Sort the darks from the lights
Like the wrong from the right
So you put up a fight.
It’s women’s work.

Wash the cup, keep it clean,
On your cloth, dirt unseen.
Wipe it down, don’t be mean.
Conceal your hurt.

Can’t be loud, keep the peace.
Smile away, set at ease.
Close your mouth, don’t release
A single word.

Never mind, you’ll be fine.
Here’s a pill and some wine.
Wash it down, numb the time
Like it’s dessert.

What I want is the meat
But you say I’m petite:
Keep it light, keep it sweet—
The lie observed.

No more Scripture on stage
Though I read every page.
And each day, how I age:
With death I flirt.

Don’t play dumb or confused.
I know you see it too.
Think too much, be consumed:
It’s women’s work.