My Mother’s Pride by Thom Gunn

My Mother’s Pride

She dramatized herself

Without thought of the dangers.

But “Never pay attention,” she said,

“To the opinions of strangers.”

And when I stole from a counter,

“You wouldn’t accept a present

From a tradesman.” But I think I might have:

I had the greed of a peasant.

She was proud of her ruthless wit

And the smallest ears in London.

“Only conceited children are shy.”

I am made by her, and undone.