She dramatized herself

Without thought of the dangers.

But ‘Never pay attention,’ she said,

‘To the opinions of strangers.’

And when I stole from a counter,

‘You wouldn’t accept a present

From a tradesman.’ But I think I might have:

I had the greed of a peasant.

She was proud of her ruthless wit

And the smallest ears in London.

‘Only conceited children are shy.’

I am made by her, and undone.