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Poetry

The Unshaven

October 1, 2026
Regarding the unshaven chin – it’s not a statement but nor is it laziness. It just seems to go with the idea of a guy these days. Smooth most places but a little roughage right there where you rest your head. TV, the movies, confirm it. A leading man, even in his own small world, must not be perfect. Because, after perfection, where is there to go? Maybe to the grocery store for bagels and coffee, pushing a cart with one bad wheel. Or to my mother’s house so she can complain about how scruffy I look. I’m thinking the grocery store would be a smarter choice. At least the bagels won't explain what real men used to do, and the coffee will be up-to-date on what's the latest look for guys. Besides, a little stubble has never judged anybody. Maybe prickle a little but you've never complained.
Editor: Michelle Newman
About the Poet
John Grey
John Grey is an Australian poet, US resident, recently published in Midnight Mind, Willow Review and the Pennsylvania Literary Journal. Latest books, “Bittersweet”, “Subject Matters” and “Between Two Fires” are available through Amazon. Work upcoming in the MacGuffin, the Bayou Review and Plainsongs.
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