The Parthenon behind her,

bleached white in classical light,

is little more than staging,

 

the backdrop they’ve chosen

–this girl and the boy who loves her–

to match her flawless style.

 

And why should a goddess

matter to her, or the distant era

when myths were real?

 

There are idols enough

for her to aspire to

in the pages of Vogue and Marie Claire.

 

The boy is patient and knows

his part: to capture her pose,

when her smile says she’s ready.

 

Her slight form balanced

on elegant, impractical heels

her head is tilted

 

to show its more auspicious side.

Between each perfect shot,

she adjusts her hair again.

 

Brushed out ceremoniously,

it is cast to the wind or rivers

past neck and shoulder.

 

Oblivious to those

who scurry around her

like so many extras,

 

she will Instagram her best face

to the friends at home

she keeps updated.