What Were You Wearing Exhibit

was this: from the top a white t-shirt

cotton short-sleeved and round at the neck

this was tucked into a jean skirt (also cotton)

ending just above the knees and belted at the top

underneath all this was a white cotton bra and white underpants (though probably not a set)

on my feet white tennis shoes the kind one plays tennis in

and then finally silver earrings, and lip gloss.

this is what i was wearing that day

that night that fourth of july in 1987.

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you may be wondering why this matters

or even how i remember every item in such detail

you see i have been asked this question many times

it has been called to my mind many times

​this question this answer these details.

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but my answer much awaited much anticipated seems flat

somehow given the rest of the details of that night

during which at some point i was raped.

and i wonder what answer what details would give comfort

could give comfort to you my questioners seeking comfort

where there is alas no comfort to be found.

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if only it were so simple

if only we could end rape by simply changing clothes

i remember also what he was wearing that night

even though it’s true that no one has ever asked.