simplistically, when i went unridiculed:
i was actually hoping you’d hate my new shoes
and realize i can’t even pick my size
much less match my slacks and ties
and socks with — was it shirts or eyes? -
you’d long to equip my reluctant smile,
your flair, your sense of pride and style
would magically efface all trace of bile
and reopening your heart you’d banish the blues.