Poems
This poem parallels images of the Biblical queen Esther in modern beauty regimens with images of King Xerxes’ wealth, privilege, and power.
First published in 45th Parallel
Summer 478 BCE: Esther
YOU:
A single braid
on the side of the head
Express taxi downtown
beauty is done to me
Sit back and enjoy
a modern look
Ask your eunuch
stylist which myrrh
is right for you
(elevate your routine)
Worthy beauty brigade elite
bestow ancient spice ritual:
Spa year, harem days, new look,
odalisque parties (new BFFs)
Compulsory happy hours
with a gym bag, salon silk therapy
Saint-Tropez minus vacay,
dressing delicious, deep clean
Streamlined body, born to shine
one-in-a-million fountain of truth
A sophisticated chic matte
creates intimacy
Must-have sleek pineapple flower
pure moon hair goals
A celebration
of skin
Better than
his ex
Unconventional living proof, alluring
savvy, brave, two-faced essentials
Keep out of trouble, glazed, blowout
fierce, fabulous femme of candied lips
Ask for luxurious ingredients, you get
the good stuff. Trust us,
Indulgence, be pigmented, mermaid vibes
ready to play, unblush ripe
Hide natural home pride
behind hazel eyes, erase lines,
This is
a limited time offer!
And you’ve received
a ton of buzz lately
Whipped rose, tousled bed head
perfectly undone
Your gift,
everything you need…
is You.
HIM:
Vintage
Elegantly rugged
Oak and steel heat
Beard master
Bold connoisseur
Control-addict philosophy
Heavy metal Versace
Full-volume amber damage
L’homme
Sauvage
Lights dimmed
Boss
Wild at heart
Urban Eros
Essential oils
Roi
Bronze
Surge
Charcoal
Rush
Juniper
Gin
Blood
Citrus
Sandalwood
Finish
Firm
Edition
Beware his mood,
His scent
Until the sun
comes up
and beyond—
His thirst
will crush
every part of you.
Elisabeth Mehl Greene © 2021