The scrape of the corn broom
Across the wood planks of the front step
Beads of sweat converge on my brow
The toilet brush handle
In. out.  In –
Flush.

The clatter of rinsed dishes
Being placed on the rack to dry
Set the table dear
It's the least you can do

Suck it up lady
It's all women's work you know
Suck it up?
I'll suck it out.
That'll teach you for making me a woman.

It's all just a bit of housecleaning
The vacuum provides the white noise
I don't have to hear how it's my duty
I don't have to hear
The little non-babies cry anymore

We vacuum these things up now
It's my house
I'll clean it as I please