Children's Table
by Nancy Craig

Scavenger bird
Swallowed her whole

She was chosen
Vacant looks

There was no difference
Never any difference.

But can't find a
Comfortable place to sit.

Honey turns to human
kindness
Modern devices tear her
mouth.

Gives the girl a home
Looking at her

Turns around to say
Conformity consistency

Meaning intermingled
Under her nails.

Now that porch stands
For her

Stands right there
With a welcome mat

And a break-away floor.

Nancy Craig was relinquished for adoption in 1958 when she was three
days old. Bom Julie Rodelli, the truth of her identity and adoption
remained hidden from her until the secret was discovered shortly before
her 32nd birthday. In 1992 Nancy (Julie) was reunited with her
birthmother.

Copyright 1996 Nancy Craig

(This feature appeared in the Summer 1997 issue of the Bastard Quarterly.)

Back to The Bastard Quarterly - Summer 1997