Tonight's Poet Corner: Afternoon Party

Afternoon Party
by Belinda Roddie

It all tastes so petty, and pettiness
does not go well with honey or
nutmeg, or cinnamon or tea.
I'd rather drink myself silly,

indulge in whiskey or molasses,
the kind of flavor that clings
to you. Your teeth ache just from
the memory of the tang.

If we were all a little less focused
on our miniaturized vendettas, we
could settle for miniaturized cupcakes
and sandwiches instead. This sugar

mixed with cream is gentler and
more appealing for civilized
conversation. Though the aroma of
almonds is suspicious.