Home Poetry Gas is expensive

Gas is expensive

by Stephanie Alfaia

He says there’s truth in just – 
just saying
just wondering
just hoping chaos stops
tasting as good as it feels.

The scent!
ammonia, iron, magnolia
pooling under her breasts
while she tracks the gasoline meter.
Must not go above $35…

They watch her adjust the length 
of her daisy dukes.
She likes to pretend they’re too short.

Sometimes we go on roadtrips
to escape living together.
Sometimes we stay at home
to be honest.

He wonders if he made the right choice
Momma said she ain’t it
but you see, he loves a reason to
be the figure he craves.

Momma needs to be seen.
Her vitality is linked to
every moment it’s not cold enough
for a sweater.
But they need her.

His gal’s pockets are always full.
gum, lighter, tragedy,
receipts tucked into every crevice.
She prances and spills at every corner
begging to be found.

What do you pick up from the ground?

Oh the power you have
woman!
The warmth between your
legs feed the empty
but you like to forget
to belong.

“Keep the change
I’m gonna make it big one day”, she says.
And they smile,
watching her adjust the length
of her daisy dukes.
She likes to make them look.

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