Wednesday, June 1, 2011

"Sterling Silver"

Part of a set brought out for special occasions
showing guests wholeness and belonging—
            matching, complementary, complete
            “All for one, and one for all!”
The family motto reiterated in ritualistic chant

Part of a set displayed on holidays
buffed with care into sparkle and gleam
            hiding flaws and secrets
            under layers of protective polish
Impressing outsiders and onlookers

Part of a set exhibited for ceremony
identical in rigid expectations
            proof of continuity and unity
            loaded with traditional roles
Indistinguishable utensils of the matriarch


Copyright 2011 Elizabeth Abrams Chapman

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