Yehudit And Mother 1962 Poem by Terry Collett

Benny had just left
and your mother
was walking about
the passage
as you gave a last wave.

You closed the door
and your mother eyed you
how long have you
known him?
she asked.

Since he started
at the school
the other week
you said.

You seem
very close to him
and he to you it seems
your mother said.

We like each other
you said.

Well don't like him
too much
I don't trust young men
they are always after
the one thing
your mother said firmly.

What thing?
you said.

Don't be flippant
you know what I mean
she said
moving close to you
and breathing on you.

We just talk
(you never
mentioned the kiss) .

Make sure that
is all you do
she said
and walked off
leaving you
staring at her figure
disappearing
into the kitchen.

Then she came out again
you can help me
with dinner
rather than stand there
with your mouth open
she said.

You followed her
into the kitchen
and helped her
with the dinner
help lay the table.

You though of Benny
and the kiss that evening
and the hugs.

All kept secret
and undercover
from your
keen eyed mother.