The Queen of England has strict rules for female members
of the royal family about the wearing
of nail polish.

Color nail polish is prohibited,
a natural blush polish is acceptable.

The Queen’s preferred nail polish brand is
“Ballet Slippers,” by Esse, a pale pink—
as sheer as chiffon,
as pale as a new moon in June,
as versatile as Rose´ wine.

The Queen’s polish is the epitome of refinement,
understatement, and propriety.

My preferred colored nail polish is RED!
the epitome of glamor, sex, and sophistication.

Not just any red—not an orange-based poppy red—
but a blue-based, deep red, one that ranges
from ruby to garnet.

Red nail polish reminds me of New Year’s Eve and
Champagne toasts, little black dresses, New York
City, bing cherries, and a Merlot-filled wine glass with
a lipstick stain on the rim.

Once, like the Queen, I had a favorite brand of polish.
Of course, it was discontinued. But that’s another poem.

When I run out of my stash, a seductive array of
red polishes awaits me:*

It’s Raining Men	Russian Roulette
Jungle Red	Carnal Red
Big Apple Red	My Old Flame
Fishnet Stockings	Chick Flick Cherry
An Affair in Red Square	Fire Escape Rendezvous
I’m Not Really a Waitress	All I Need Is You

*Actual Names