Sin Scrubbed


Her husband wanted her squeaky clean, sin scrubbed,
too many eyes and tongues were playing darts.

Cinched tight in the Bible belt she had just enough
freedom to walk a straight line, but not enough
to question the destination.
Five steps into narrow she learned a pretty lie
could polish the pulpit, but truth could empty the pews.

Born on the far side of his dad’s fire and brimstone he peddled fear
with the finesse of a master manipulator, and the quick jaw
of a used car salesman selling overpriced to an empty pocket.

Learning late is still learning…Her husband was definitely his father’s son.
Her confessions might dirty the holy water, but his would turn it to mud.
For the first time in four revivals she was eager to go to the altar.
If he wanted a sin scrubbing, she’d provide the soap.

©Susie Clevenger 2017

#NaPoWriMo2017

Real Toads ~ The Tuesday Platform

Comments

Timoteo said…
Makes me want to find a revival meetin'--NOW!
Sanaa Rizvi said…
My goodness this is such a fiery write, Susie!
Therisa's World said…
Hell has no fury, then a woman scorned, is the first thought, I had, after reading this poem.
Anonymous said…
Oh my! Get me some cold water.
Marian said…
Learning late is STILL LEARNING. Yes, indeed!
Thotpurge said…
Lot of strong lines there... spitting fire!!!
Jim said…
I enjoyed reading this, Susie. I'm with Therisa, something wasn't right here. But things do happen, I've seen, watched, both sides close up. Both ended in divorce. And, surprise, the end was best for all.
..
Outlawyer said…
Ha. Very clever. So succinct but a whole story! k.
Woohoo...like a poem with attitude. My favourite line...truth could empty the pews.
Thanks for the smile.
grapeling said…
that Baptist past coming to roost ~
Yes, quite a story - and I am in awe of the wonderful phraseology.
Magaly Guerrero said…
Here is to learning at any age and walking with as much swing in one's hip as one sees fit!
Magaly Guerrero said…
Forgot to say that I love the tone of this piece. It makes me want to shake my fist in the air, and roar!