Fancy

 

Picture perfect decor 

With lots of frills—

Caprese snacks, wine, 

And imported dills.

Party guests flock in,

Dressed to the nines—

Each lady wearing 

A necklace that shines 

Each couple arrives 

And tips the valet.

Thus it begins— 

The social ballet.

Chatting and bragging 

To build reputation; 

Giggling here, winking there—

In pretend adulation.

When all's said and done,

The streamers are down,

And you've finally shed 

Your gem-studded gown—

There's a moment of real 

As the make-up's removed. 

Just what has been gained? 

Just what have you proved? 

You look in the mirror, 

Your face lonely and numb,

And plan for the next 

Fancy party to come.

 

© 2024 Teresa Miles Kephart