Venefic Kiss. A Poem by Jim Dunlap

 

 

I’ve shopped around for something that suits

your natural elegance and style—

something which enhances, not dilutes

your unctuous demeanor and engaging smile.

 

I’ve

   searched

       through

         flower shops

             by the

                    score …

admired

       much

             variety

                    in colors

                        and tints,

but

   never

       considered

             the search

                           a chore;

though fate

     was perhaps

               dropping hints.

 

The blossoms varied from carmine to mauve,

carnations were gorgeous, but roses passé;

I chose only the best for someone so suave;

in the end, time only still stood in the way.

 

My eyes fell on an orchid—and then I just knew

it was right. Black as midnight: in the light cobalt blue.

 

* Mafioso, black orchid