ATROPHY

How frequently the smile that’s idle

Befalls a swiftness to obtuse.

How hastily smile muscles atrophy

At interludes of unuse.

How ebbingly facial tissues

Resist a change from resting state.

How heavily hang jowl-muscles

That so rapidly meet that fate.

Because custom becomes the habit,

And then habit becomes the norm;

Because smiling is communion

And adornment of facial form;

Because frowning is cancellation

And negation of classy jowl,

Befits habitual:

Rather than “Triangularis” to a frown,

Simply “Zygomatic” to a smile.

               Joan Binkley

               Copyright 9/15/09  by Joan Binkley