Jill Rothman: Accessories and Posture

Dandelion likes hats. Easter Sunday,
the only day she refuses to wear one.

Hats speak for her
like ventriloquists,
make statements
at demonstrations,
shout on foggy days. Dandelion is easily noticed in fields and tourist photos, shows up in flash mobs, would be remembered

at any crime scene.
At 79,
a purple fedora will do. For now,
a toque, a cloche,
a beret, a turban. Dandelion likes hats. That’s all there is to say about that.

Basil wears vests.
an extra layer
over tailored shirts
and even long sleeved tees, hiding his heart.

He owns and often dons, many of his favorites,
suit vests and tweeds, gilets on sporty days. Cold and hard require, the sheepskin and suede. Basil wears vests

and they wear him.

In 2027,
just before Dandelion’s 80th
and just after Basil’s 78th,
they will meet.
They will be seen often sipping tea. Basil will begin to forget
the top two buttons.
Dandelion will occasionally
and then more often,
display her beauty
at the teashops and at home,
sans chapeau,
without a hat.

4/18/21 Jill Rothman