HAIBUN: Proper Living

 
Proper Living

Grandpa won’t oil the squeaky windmill, says he likes it that way—tells him where he’s at in a dust storm. A man of strict habits, he’s extra gentle with horses and kids.

double yolked egg
the rooster-spur scar
on Mama's shin

Up before dawn, he shaves without a mirror, chooses a blue plaid shirt with mother-of-pearl snaps at the cuff, which he keeps neatly tucked into dark trousers. He won’t wear jeans like Daddy, “cause no gentleman rides out looking like that.” Come sunset he smells like a hot branding iron.

shelling peas
into the enameled pan
plink-plink-plink

After dressing the tack with neatsfoot oil and brushing his Stetson, Grandpa strips to the waist in the cow shed. A red-handled pump squeals till primed, then gushes into the wash trough. Fresh-laundered coveralls keep the man tidy while he milks the three golden guernseys.

sink high
a line of damp
marks Granny's apron


contemporary haibun online 19.3, Dec 2023