the portrait

a newer shade of blue
goes up
on the wall.
near grey in certain
light when the shades
are drawn.
but it will
match
the drapes, the rug,
the newly upholstered
sofa
that's centered in
the living room
as you come down the hall.
a vase
goes on the mantel. ming?
doubtful, perhaps
home goods
or Tuesday morning.
flowers too, a bundle of
fresh roses,
of a pinkish hue.
a painting of a
man, a woman,
unsmiling, goes over
the fireplace.
they don't touch,
but look
at the artist as if
he held a camera.
a small dog sits between
them.
they most likely
have passed on.
whatever happiness
they shared
is not shown.