I was only twelve when Johnny Updike had his way with me.
Reading Couples secretly,
piano lessons through,
even then I knew
Denmark was rotting in the pocket of Connecticut.
Sifting through pretty decay,
I lay hands on the sticky thoughts of the academic prince
catch hold of his reason
peel its thick skin and carve bitter words:
buying black babies does not guarantee redemption.
Much as he tries to bathe clean in white sand
he is still haunted by the slap of bare feet in the A&P
and the false promise of tight denim will, ultimately, undo him.
Solace will not be rushed
but comes at last, extending its welcome
as he greets the poisoned tip.
2/2/11
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I first read John Updike's COUPLES when I was 12 years old--and still haven't recovered. First published in The Onion Union as Shudders. Much refurbished since then.
Nice. Enjoyed this one.
Thank you James.
I am a huge Updike fan. He is my favorite author. Two years since he passed. This poem is fantastic. So glad I found it/you.
Glad you enjoyed it Jeffrey. Thanks for the comment.
Enjoyed. Good poem, Yasmin.
Thanks for the read, Bill.
Lovely.
Thanks for stopping by Roxane.
Johnny Updike warped my pubescence as well (The Witches of Eastwick).
Beautiful language, images and rhythm here Yasmin! Very evocative. *
So glad you enjoyed it Michael. Thanks for stopping by.