Hazel Kaye

coffee

I have always liked my men how I liked my coffee.

 

Desperate to appear

as tough as I needed to feel

I took my coffee black;

 

strong

intense

an acquired taste

forced down out of desperation

for something to awaken me 

 

all of the men that followed

left the same bitter taste in my mouth -

the more they left 

the more I craved them

 

and so I grew to need more; 

something to lighten the taste

cushion the blow

of intoxicating personalities

that I couldn\'t get enough of

 

you are so much sweeter than they were.

softer

more welcoming

when I take you as you are

with all of the extras 

instead of watering you down -

you do not leave me craving

but comforted.