How to be a Girl

Wake in the morning
Horizon snuffing the sun
Draw closed the curtains
To block the slight light
To stall the oncoming day
And the darkness that it mirrors
Pick through the clothes
The deep forest of possibilities
That casts shade over thoughts
Splinters natural beauty
And brings small contentment
Paint my face
To cover cracks and make perfect porcelain
Each doll, a version of myself
To save for another day
Iron out each kink
The heat calming each distressed strand
For perfectly lined locks
Only to be torn out later
They pass by trembling shoulders
Held still with selfless scaffolds
Composing the dazzled front
A pretty picture that pleases the eye
And tears away the heart