Hidden Woman (written in 1984)

Hidden Woman


They say I am well-dressed, together,
But that is because they do not see me,
Schlepping around the house in ragged gray
Sweatsuit, baggy at the knees.

They say I am cool, together,
But that is because they do not see me,
A curled fetus weeping 
At the sound of your name.

They say I'm a fine Mom, bionic even,
But that is because they do not see me,
Serving up oatmeal congealed
And eggs oozing at the edges.

They say I am real,
But that is because they do not see me.