A Farewell to Arms

A meditation on Venus de Milo

My true existence

Always a conjecture

How did I really look?

How was I posed?

 

Was I really holding an apple?

My skin purest pale

 

When did I become

An armless amputee?

It was when someone said,

You’ll be more mysterious

You’ll be more beautiful

 

We’ll get you a nurse

For the rest of your life…

Since you won’t be able

To perform bodily functions

Or feed yourself

Wipe your face with a napkin

Bathe

Embrace anyone with love

 

OK, to become immortal, I’ll do it..

But could I have a moment to kiss my arms and hands

Goodbye?