I knew a woman once
Languid as the blues
Sharp as brass
Never overlooking a thing
Fighting a war between the ears
Private, on display
Nurturing, cold

She'd walk the floor
Like a father
Cacophonous tongue
Leaving untucked chairs
Head in a personal cloud of smoke
Never pausing
Never needing anyone

But she'd look at love
Like a mother
Scanning your heart's scroll
Never missing an opportunity
Sealing shut at a letdown
Moving on in her foolishness
Tricking with a smile

Yes, I knew a woman once
She taught me well

In the end,
We're all just sad, strong women
Hanging on for a word