In order to view this poem with the line breaks the author intended, we suggest reading it on a computer screen or in the landscape orientation on your phone or tablet.

Wedding Photo
Warren Woessner

The groom wears a tux with a white jacket
and black pants. He wears glasses, and looks down
as if he is watching his step. On his arm
the new bride—her face almost hidden
by her veil—is half-turned smiling
at a friend, perhaps one who was not
asked to be with them at the altar.

The only other figure in the shot
is a woman in a pew they have passed
on their way out of the church.
She has stayed seated and is not looking
at the new couple. Perhaps she disapproves
of the union or is just too old
to hurry up and stand for anyone.

No, the photo is not from either of my
two wedding days or any friend’s.
I found it. In a wet parking lot, face up,
grains of gravel ground into its back.
I have been its keeper for years.
I see it every time I sit at my desk.
I’m waiting for it to start up a poem.

—
Warren Woessner has authored six books of poetry, most recently Exit ⁓ Sky (Holy Cow! Press). He has received fellowships in poetry from the NEA, the Wisconsin Arts Board, and the McKnight Foundation. Woessner won the Many Voices competition sponsored by New Rivers Press, who published his book Storm Lines.

Know anyone who might appreciate reading Warren’s poem?
Why not share the link to this page?

Have you read these poems:
Birth Dream by Victoria Garton
The Last Ripe Fig by Katharyn Howd Machan

Table of Contents