The Fall

It would take quite a woman to wear
another woman's hair,
for I have seen her rival
and know the love she bears.

To wear as perfect ornament
to complement accessory
and bear it right, as rival might,
in absolute certainty.

I have seen the nights
that rivals fight.
I know to lose
is not to choose.

The hair is fine to wear
as any rival might—
in perfect knowledge,
unafright.

Copyright © 2009 by Karl W. Swartz.  All rights reserved.