The Poetry Corner

The Turk

By Alfred Lichtenstein

A totally perverse Turk bought for himself, Out of grief for the recent death Of plump Fatme, his favorite wife, From his white-slaver, two former mannequins, in quite good condition - You could almost say: brand new - Just imported from France. When he had them, he sang, in celebration of himelf: Sit down on my thighs. Hold me around my loins. With your sweet tongues Stroke my tearful cheeks. Ah, you have such beautifully bejeweled Eyes and such clear hands, Weariest of my wives, And such long, gentle legs. Tomorrow I buy six pairs of new Stockings of the thinnest silk As well as very small, black silk shoes. And in the evening you will dance Soft, false dances In the new silk shoes And new silk stockings. In the garden.In the sun. Close to the water. But at night I'll have you whipped By four smiling eunuchs.