Lizzie

by Larry Allen

First published in January/February, 2008, Volume 5, Issue 1, The Hatchet: Journal of Lizzie Borden Studies.

Immortalized in song,

Right or wrong,

You defied your parents

In the strongest way.

Sister Emma,

Quieter and kinder,

Warned against 

Such impudence.

Maggie the maid,

Standing by silently,

Spotted the bloodied dress

You had to burn.

Lizzie, even Midol

Could not stop 

Your mad cycle

Through an unloving family.