Little Red's Mother

My mother knew
i watched
the crack
of light
under my bed
room door
for his approaching footsteps
not
daring
to
breathe

My mother knew
but still
she
said,now give
your uncle
a kiss,
don't be a
silly child, you're
embarrassing me

My mother knew
but still
she
placed the basket
in my hand, wrapped
me in red,
sent me on
my way

she did not meet
my
eyes
when she said,
be a good
girl,
don't talk
to wolves

and gave me
to that Eater
of Souls

lisa