(22 August 1893 - 7 June 1967 / Long Branch / New Jersey)

What do you think this poem is about?

Afternoon

When I am old, and comforted,
And done with this desire,
With Memory to share my bed
And Peace to share my fire,

I'll comb my hair in scalloped bands
Beneath my laundered cap,
And watch my cool and fragile hands
Lie light upon my lap.

And I will have a sprigged gown
With lace to kiss my throat;
I'll draw my curtain to the town,
And hum a purring note.

And I'll forget the way of tears,
And rock, and stir my tea.
But oh, I wish those blessed years
Were further than they be!

Submitted: Monday, January 13, 2003


Read poems about / on: memory, kiss, hair, peace, fire, light

Comments about this poem (Afternoon by Dorothy Parker )

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  • Bhanu Padmo (8/15/2012 12:38:00 PM)

    simple, lucid and emotive.

    2 person liked.
    0 person did not like.
  • Cynthia Buhain-Baello (12/29/2009 8:42:00 AM)

    Appropriate title, witty humor but weighty wisdom here.

    2 person liked.
    0 person did not like.
  • Dale Ziegler (9/28/2009 8:37:00 PM)

    You'll find this lovely poem is more meaningful when you've reached 85, as I have.

    2 person liked.
    0 person did not like.
  • Derya T. Samsa (1/8/2009 11:03:00 AM)

    How beautifully cruel. Like a dark grin.

    2 person liked.
    0 person did not like.
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