A Girl's Story

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There is a fine leather handbag in her closet

bought for special occasions that never seem to happen.

She wears good shoes 

bought on sale. 

The size was too small so the leather is cracked 

from the shoemakers stretches.

 

She sits in a tiny flat, too tired 

to comfort her crying child.

The sadness in her face is reflected in a windowpane.

 

Years before she immigrated to New York

hoping to see her face in all the mirrors 

and large store windows that filled the City.

 

They could show her who she was 

she thought.

Perhaps even tell her who she could be.



© Karen Karpowich

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