PAINTED LADY

by Sharon Vander Meer

Previously published online at www.vandermeerbooks.com.

Bedraggled and empty,

her worn gables sagging

like an old woman’s wig,

askew and tatty.

Behind a scarred oak door

a dull wooden staircase,

marred wainscoting,

wallpaper stained and torn.

Oh, but the memories

that sing through her halls

telling of family history

full of laughter and joy.

Now restored, rainbow hues

dabbed on lintel, column,

dormer, cornice, pediment

and wraparound porch.

Oak door burnished to a shine,

beveled glass winking with light,

floors polished and golden,

the lady comes to life.

History begins anew

in the painted lady,

Victorian character and charm

dancing with memories made.