As Long As It Lasts

since my husband's death, i believe I have taped the whole place together, i do like how flexible all the broken things are.

 
Of course there were emergencies,
all sorts of grinding situations
that required taping,
Duct tape, she said, holds everything
This enlightenment proved true -
around the air conditioner where
the wasps flew in,
electrical tape on the frayed cord,
...

aluminum tape on the custom made

stove pipe that I couldn't afford
to have custom made anymore

I was an involuntary dispenser,
a widow on the ropes, but balanced
in all the stickiest of situations
The two of us drinking
leftover Christmas wine, an old cheese
spread on discount crackers

She had this wide, generous mouth
and legs so thin she could wrap
them double when they dangled
We softened everything with music,
a huddle of opinions on what would
hold, and what gave way with usage
But she held strong to her main message,

Duct tape, she said,
is a classic, a basic.
And I was glad for pointers
and for someone who laughed
and lifted a toast,
to our fine touch at taping

Reviews

[W.k.kortas]

There are things that can be mended only to a point; and life is, for much of it, the process of mending things as best as can be mended, with the full knowledge that the mending and the life itself are inextricably duct taped together.

[Shimmerbliss/CAF]

Before I even get to the poem itself I want to tell you that the title and your lead in touched my heart. "i do like how flexible all the broken things are" says so much to me, of your spirit and the will to smile at even the most painful things. I do not know how long it has been since you lost your husband...I am saddened for your loss.
All of that sets me off to read this poem with the threat of a tear in my eye. As always, your writing style and talent are superb, and this poem lacks none of your grace and depth. I picture you with a good friend who helped you through tough times, perhaps she still is. As for her advice, I believe she is correct. Duct tape and superglue have often held my life together. This poem is special.

[Emily B]

you are truly a role model for women everywhere, Phibby . . . I need to start a tape collection just in case something needs fixing

[Ed Hart]

as a man with a box of tapes (that i even tape shut) and little sense of decorum, i fully appreciate your use of the sticky element...who'd of thought you could have fixed these words in time with half a roll of that poetry tape of yours...

[Phibby Venable]

lol, thank u Ed, when i ran out of places to fix, i had to tape a poem up. have a great day

[The Rock And Roll Cowbo..]

Sometimes we have to make do, especially in tough times... your poem is witty and yet has a sentimental expression that tugs at the heart.

[Phibby Venable]

So glad u like it! thank u!

[The Rock And Roll Cowboy(REBEL WITH A CAUSE)]

Welcome :)

[Donald Meikle]

Reality and friendship woven together in duct tape survival. As usual you paint life with words Phib

[Phibby Venable]

definitely real life, Donald, thank u so much for your review!