Jim Corner

Prima Donna of the Wash


With delicate manner,
the five year old
moves with grace
in the morning's bubbled blades.

Dad dressed her
in the white cotton --
tiny Keds she left
on the playground's pad.

She applauds the zinnias --
kisses the Mexican bird of paradise
along the rusting cast-iron fence.

Carefully, in slow motion,
each tiptoe is an artful move,
early monarchs flutter around her --
avoid her reach.