A bit of advice: Monday Poem 4b (see below for 4a)

For Ladies: How to Dress For Your Father’s Funeral

Somewhere in your mind,

you will find the strength to do it—

dig deep and seek the way

to present yourself

on this, of all days.

 

Black is best.

Leave the rest of the spectrum

for another time

and place.

 

Greys and navy blue

are okay,

but not together—

monochromes are expected.

 

If it’s winter,

Don’t neglect to wear

a great coat—fake fur

will do, but a nice dark wool

is fine too.

 

A skirt—mid-calf—

not too short or slutty;

your upper half

should be quiet and calm,

not fussy.

 

Cosmetics should be

nearly there;

take care no primary

colours are used.

 

Your hair should be swept back,

yet not severe;

never fear the stray strand

that gives you some humanity.

 

Best shun the perfume—

steer clear of “Poison” and “Obsession”.

A dab of L’Air du Temps

is acceptable if you must.

 

Shoes: stilletto heels are not

permitted (see “slutty” above).

Besides, if you have a pulpit to get to,

you want stability.

 

Likely, when all is through,

and you’re alone in your room,

you’ll shed your death-clothes

and the gloom

—want to bury them

at the back of a closet,

or burn them, or pass them on

to someone else.

 

Keep something,

for you will need it

another day.

Kat Mortensen©2010