I smile so hard,
until all that is left
of my face is a
rictus of lips and teeth
while my body shrinks,
eroded by the din
of the party, too many people
bigging themselves up
until I, who cannot be
bothered with such
games, am ankle high,
apologetic for my
existence, while my
nice smile keeps
up appearances.
I sidle to the kitchen,
where the dog lies
in his soft bed,
waiting patiently
for a fuss.
I sit on the floor
and caress his ears,
a giant in his life,
and in mine.
Bio: Alex Grehy (she/her) is inspired by the natural world around her, her imagination making unique connections expressed in vivid prose and thought-provoking poetry. Her work has been featured worldwide by publishers including Gnashing Teeth, Red Penguin Collections and Short Edition.
