So Many Lullabies

I'd do the diapers.

Using formula would be a blow,

I will admit, but I'll make do

with Einstein videos

to keep the child's IQ up.

Just let me have a baby.

I'm not the type of man

who needs a son,

testosterone dictating

that my genes be writ

into posterity. Fatherhood

is what I crave, training wheels,

bandaids, burnt meatloaf,

and the chance to change one life

in ways my own was not.

Just let me have the baby.

I'll do anything, make gold

from straw, give up my name

three times.

I know so many lullabies.

Just let me hold it, once.