FOURTEEN STRAIGHT LINES FOR BESS
In memory of Bess Mason Ivory, 1919-2008
From Hutchins Intermediate days you checked
to see how I was doing at that school.
You and Marcellius did this, I suspect,
to keep our teachers playing by the rule.
Back then the Parent-Teacher thing was big.
I’m talking 1950’s, back when Ike
was President. Marcellius knew how twig
and branch connect. You, too. You two were like
a substitute, a mom and dad who showed
on visiting night to speak on my behalf.
My own folks lacked the time or, maybe slowed
by circumstance and children, lacked the staff.
But you, sweet Bess, you looked out after me.
Love grafts me fast now to your family tree.
Al Young
© 2008 by Al Young
