Taboo

Cautionary

Loud

Transgressive

Feverish

Powerful

Inflamed

Classy 

Tacky

Infectious

Lustful

Lust Inducing

Painful 

Irate

Hellish
 

I remember standing 

in the dressing room of Dillard's 

with my found Grandma 

as she asserted

"honey, Red is your color." 

I collected her commentary 

and carried it around in the back pocket

of my mind 

like some random business card 

that you are pretty sure you are never going to need 

but keep just in case 

something comes up. 

Of course 

she would probably strongly disagree

with the way I weaponize the color now,

but I can't help but whisper thanks 

as I wield it with unrepentance. 

 

Red shoes 

Red nails

Red bikini

Red letter 

Red lips 

Red demeanor

 

The delinquent act 

of daring 

To be noticed 

To be longed for 

To be shunned 

To evoke anger 

and curiosity 

with one devious stride

 

Too much to handle 

Too bold to forget