Dress Up Poem by Jeri Martindale

I was wrapped in silk, painted with red lips, my hair put up to show off my beautiful-ness.

Only I felt like I was covered in filth, that my clothes were torn and ripped, my hair combed using only fingertips.

The first time I played dressup with him.

I was wanted to look a certain way, told the words I was to say, to wear a smile each and everyday.

Only I knew what i looked like, the thoughts in my mind, through it all the silent tears in my eyes.

Dressing me up to hide all the lies

I was wanted to appear with him, to stand at his arm by his side, to allow him to cover the truth inside.

Only I knew how weak I was, I knew him behind closed doors, the fire in his eyes, blue no more.

I don't want to play this dressup game anymore.