How Different From Black Can the Color Red Be?
inspired by our Kia 

How different from black can the color red be?
Just wait, laughed my friends and you will see.
So I boldly went out and purchased me one.
It’s too late now, the deed is done

I am used to dignity wrapped in black:
Refinement, manners, poise and tact.
The red has come as quite a surprise,
I tell you, friends, it’s opened my eyes

Nobility’s flown; it’s not to be seen.
Replaced with mischief and conniving scheme.
Food must be hidden and clothes packed away
A whirlwind, a dervish, El Nino at play!

The blacks with soulful glances hover
‘round the redheaded girl ‘neath the forbidden cover,
Not understanding this lapse in the rule
and thinking that Mom’s being played for a fool.

With two on the floor and one in the chair,
It certainly LOOKS like things are not fair.
But how can I move her, her attitude’s plain:
“Get outta my face; I’ve quite staked my claim!”

While others I know are collecting their titles,
I am still very busily checking my vitals.
My blood pressure’s up and heartbeat is rapid
Next to the reds the blacks seem quite vapid.

The blacks can be trusted alone in the house.
The red I can’t even trust with my spouse.
She manipulates, cajoles and generally teases,
To get what she wants; to do as she pleases.

Mayhem and havoc hallmark her name;
She should have been dubbed Calamity Jane.
My friends are still smirking; they’re taking delight
In the strange situations; the troubling plight

Of one who refused to believe in her heart
That the reds and the blacks are sure breeds apart.
How different from black can the color red be?
Just visit our house and surely you’ll see

That possessed we’ve become; we’re totally taken
With impertinence and confidence that will not be shaken.
In just a few months it’s dawned upon me
Just how different from black can the color red be!

©Penny Cary 1997