YEHUDIT'S LIE 1965

A GIRL AND HER MOTHER AND A LIE IN 1965

That boy Benedict
went to Richmond
your mother says
his mother said
the other day
in the post office
when we met there.

You stare out the window
birds are on the garden
looking for worms
after your father
had dug there.

Did he?
You say
pushing out the words
as if they were spoken
by some other.

You daren't turn around
and look at your mother
or her beady eyes
will search you out.

Yes he often
goes there apparently
his mother said.

I expect he has
some girl there
knowing him
your mother says
her voice spiteful.

The birds are busy
pecking at the upturned soil.

Don't suppose you
saw him when you
were at your uncle's place?
Your mother says.

No never went
into the town much
walked the park mostly
you say
your mind rushing about
seeking answers
to questions
she might ask.

Your mother comes
to the window
and peers out
and stands beside you.

I hope you are not
deceiving me Yehudit
she says.

You stare harder
at the birds
sparrows and blue tits
and blackbirds.

No of course not
you say
never knew
he'd be there
you lie.

Your mother stands there
and turns to gaze at you.

If I find out
you have lied to me
she says
her breath
on your cheek
there will be trouble.

Never lie to you
you say
your voice weak.

Your mind remembering
as a child your mother
standing you on a spot
and telling you
always to tell the truth
or my hand
she would say
showing you her hand
will slap.

She walks off
off to her tasks
don't forget
to make your bed
before you go off
to work
she says.

I have made it
you reply
the child in you
wanting to cry.