Formality Poem by Patti Masterman

Formality is:
Molecules barely brushing, almost apologetically, up against other molecules
As if by accident, or a brushstroke undertaken slightly less far
Than the distance halfway between neck and shoulder
To reveal less bosom, due to a dignified corsage of white flowers;
Long elbow-length gloves, made only for sipping martinis
Which we decline and then accept, only with the most definite uncertainty
While we glance warily at our watches,
Made with such gleaming, clean lines of precision
In another country far away, where the graceful birds flock
Only at sunset, to preen themselves
Around the air-borne rainbows, of perfectly flowing fountains.