I long to be one
of those women with
the flawless fingernails.
I can’t help but make
assumptions based on
their perfectly smooth
cuticles, trimmed and even
—a self-reflective metaphor.
Unchipped, jewel tone paint
colors, themed perfectly to outfit
or occasion. I bet these women
also have their beds made daily,
and have appropriate resources
to outsource even a
flickering anxiety, perhaps
about a looming dinner
party and how to properly
seat the guests for minimal
social friction. You might tell me
my presumptions are inelegant.
Even so, I wouldn’t decline
similar first impressions about
my own appearance
being divined.
caroline ridgway 