A Theory of Relativity |
Written by Lynn Coye | |||
At birth the baby knows
Her mother as herself A bond without identity. Nursed on depression, Cradled in insecurity, Caressed by neglect, She smells the perfume of resentment Feels the kiss of accidental birth. Through the maternal gaze, She beholds their inner world: A landscape of despair Mountains of fury Pools of bilious criticism.
You took me by the hand, mama Lead me down the path Of black-and-white should and shouldn’ts. In times of uncertainty, taught me to pray To a God who punished my every mis-step Made me to stand on my own As retribution for my childlike neediness Nurtured my cancerous self-doubt, Helped me excise friendships And then upon your death collapsed The black hole of a mother’s love A Theory of Relativity
Lynn Coye
San Jose, CA, USA
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