Masculine Modalities
A young man loitering is seen by guys
Who pass nearby. A single one pulls close
Inside his Mustang . . . loitering one sees eyes
Consuming him. The younger one feels gross
And turns his face away. Four other men
In uniforms approach with crew cut hair.
They urge a military life but then
The youth intuits rules, rules, rules, their blare.
Some men dressed up in glamor flash their smiles
From Hollywood and rock star stage. He feels
That he’s not worthy. Fearing glitter styles
His honesty or cowardice appeals.
Some priests with shiny vestments do their prayers
On pilgrimage. The young man, smirking, stares.
~ Phillip Whidden
by phillipw | Apr 20, 2025 | FA, MA, MI, RE, SE |