Juan curled against sophistication
His lists of conquests
leapt into his arms
each time he opened his journal.
Grain moth details flitted about fond memories.

Hobbled to his amorous habbits
every female represented a challenge.
But lately
he discovered himself shivering
bone-chilled by their cold shoulders,
repelled by averted faces.
His appearances seem to be
heralded by different fanfares.
What blares turned women to retreat?

Only his journal could stiffen
his flacid pride.

-Betsy Packard