Inheritance

Washington, Lincoln, Hamilton, Jackson,
kept in denomination order in my wallet
with Ulysses S. and Ben in a separate compartment like you taught me,
not to be confused with a one, or a ten or twenty, some lesser amount.
These guys live here with me now, passed from your last will to mine.

It’s not like there’s a lot of loose company
out for a gin and tonic or a saloon stroll,
doors swinging as we pass through
acting out a country and western music video.
Money seems to be on the mind of your daughter,

since I live in our house and tie up whatever remains
like the bulls you used to rope, bulldogging from horseback in your youth
throwing down steer – you were a daredevil then –
with moves that wore out your hips, shoulders, spine.
These guys in their white and green righteousness stare at me

throwing down a dare I can’t yet interpret,
a saddle not fully tightened
slipping from side to side as my knees grip
to keep from falling.

Erica Marks recently retired from a distinguished 40-year career in fundraising, most recently as Vice President for Development & Alumni Relations for SUNY New Paltz. For decades, her literary vocation has run parallel to her professional career. She is currently at work on What Comes After; a book of poems and essays that offers an often-humorous reflection on life and loss. Marks holds a B.A. in English, an M.A. in Arts Administration, and is conversant in French, Spanish, and Norwegian. She actively supports the arts as a board member and Treasurer for Practical Cats Theatre Company in New York City.