The transaction completed
my payment was approved
I returned my debit card
to custom slot in wallet torn
stray unravelling threads of
up-cycled tyre from Cambodia
Asked if I would require a bag
I affirmed my desire to have a
handheld repository for my purchase
bending disappearing below the counter
a lady reappeared to shake and punch
to unfold gracelessly a paper receptacle
White handles attached to
the bag of sugariest pink
pinker than Barbie, Cartland,
the singer, candy or princesses
I walked out the door gripping it
with manly grasp, my maleness still intact.
Ciaran Burke
