There was no shadow over my G.D.R. childhood.
Later I acted in such a way that I would not have to live in
constant conflict with the state.” –Angela Merkel
at the bell, she finally jumps. Her determination comes from her armpits.
She is the child who learns to walk by never letting go of anything. Warten Sie mal.
The slogan “Der Sozialismus Siegt”
was posted everywhere we looked.
We were always careful to appear loyal.
She becomes a quantum chemistry scientist
and a beloved member of the Club of the Unkissed.
Eventually she learns to lace her fingers in a diamond shape over her stomach.
We carried the Stasi’s Handbook for a Happy Citizen
wherever we went.
We slept and dreamt of princesses.
and never bends her knees. Nicknamed Mutti and The Decider,
she serves guests at the Chancellery potato soup and stuffed cabbage: Gutes Essen.
The hole in her sock, the only giveaway.