Don't Shatter Me
Am I a china doll?
I my ruffles and my silks and my satins?
Soft and smiling, delicate features
That appear to be painted on?
Is that all I am? Your glass sister?
Don't let them touch me-
Oh no, Celena musn't be harmed!
She's too fragile, too delicate,
Too dainty.
'Don't soil your dress, Celena dear!
'Don't wander off, you could get hurt.
'Why don't you sit and sew,
Rather than run outside?'
Brother, why do you put me on the shelf?
If you leave something there, it's bound to gather dust.
What's wrong with being useful, doing something,
Getting a little worn?
Or are you afraid,
That behind all the ruffles and silks and satins,
Under the soft facade of ivory and blush,
Within the doll's stuffing
That you might find
A fiery core?
Well, dear Allen, if you embark upon such a task,
A word of advice to you in your endeavors:
Don't get burned.