James

Toy war veteran###
Zapata X strapping a###
shallow chest###
billowy blouse of###
white he returns unsoiled.###

Hands missed and mimed###
phantom wave in a###
puppets' parade carved###
heart of wood unbeating but###
tulip red.###

Earless head cocked###
gamely attentive###
half eye bent leg###
neck of spindle turned###
in service still.###

Curly top lock###
for swooning doll waiting on###
a red smile to match a###
patriot's ribbon cinching###
a waist worn out.###