Poem: "Undelivered Mail" by Rhina P. Espaillat

from Playing at Stillness. © Truman State University Press.
Used with permission. (from "The Writer's Almanac" on National Public Radio in the U.S.)

Undelivered Mail

Dear Daughter,

Your father and I wish to commend you
on the wisdom of your choices
and the flawless conduct of your life


Dear Poet!

Where is the full-length manuscriptyou promised us?
Your check is waiting
The presses are ready
and the bookstores are clamoring for delivery


Darling,

This convention is tedious
beyond belief: the hotel is swarming with
disgustingly overexposed women
far too young to have dignity or any minds at all


Dear Patient:

The results of your blood tests reveal
that your problem stems from
a diet dangerously low in pizza and chocolate


Dear Mom,

You were right about everything
and I was an idiot not to listen