Workbook Poem by Mary Angela Douglas

in this workbook you will learn
how to tell apples from oranges
how to slice the pie among five

friends without offending any
and still have pie leftover for breakfast.
how to tell time

and the names of clouds as they dissolve
and costume jewelry from the real thing
and how to make anything happy

out of play doh. and small talk, small change
while wearing complementary colours.
how to address a valentine correctly

even if the red envelope comes back.
to act in school plays
in a sequined costume

as though you were the Princess for real
gold flecks in your hair, the confetti of the kingdom,
disappearing into a final sleep

you, who've just recently learned
how to tie your shoelaces so they won't come undone
and how to make biscuits

that won't fall apart.

mary angela douglas 25 january 2016