Well, Max, you did your best. And if you turned
your daughter into a son and hid your softer side,
taught her perfection at your workbench, and burned
away weakness and tears, yes, it did provide.
Lace and giggles would not have gotten her through.
A handsome man in the photographs, you gave
your strength. But from the start she wanted you,
the craftsman, the lady's man she never forgave.
I am one of those--the older men she took apart
to find your love. And if there is something still
not granted, some deep appetite of the heart,
maybe my will will answer where your will
could not. One thing I'll always keep in sight-
you'll want this sweet labor done just right.