Poetry

Chinese Diagnostic Doll

The old Emperor's young wife

is concealed by a rice paper screen

painted with plum blossom.

Her malady is delicate.

The physician must not look or touch.

Lowering her eyes the new bride

points to the place.

Passes the figure to the maid

who whispers, intimates.

The ivory doll is naked, prone.

Her body, a mirror -

narrow waist, lotus feet like hooves.

His hands on her cool skin.

Jenny Donnison

© 2014