Cheap

(September 30, 2010)

I’ve been thinking about those razors,

the blue generic ones I bought in Asheville.

They were labeled “For Men,”

but my legs craved the attention,

and they were on sale—the razors.

I wanted to wear that white skirt,

long enough to please your parents,

short enough for your hands to wander

while waiting for the breadsticks.

That’s the first time I’d shaved my legs

with the sole purpose of satisfying you,

not knowing all razors were for men.

I’ve been thinking about those razors—

the two dollars and ninety nine cents

that helped me become a woman—

as I lather up today and wonder if

the silkiness will ever be mine again.