The Dolls
The dolls are happy in their parlour - Their painted expressions say so, Anyway. And they are loved - Love is time, patience and placing them Carefully on crafted chairs For miniature people. Protected from the heat of the Sun, Uncertainty and playground enemies What could they want for? Yet they always seem to be Looking beyond - A glaze in their eyes Behind the tiny teapot Like some days They want to smash predictability And sweep it under the gowns They didn't choose to wear. LJ Ireton 2022