My Very Excellent Mother used to be
the soul of generosity, and her beneficence
a universally-acknowledged truth.
Around the world, students rejoiced
when they recalled that she
Just Sent Us Nine Pizzas.

But as time passes, so it seems, the universe
contracts; mom’s liberality is capped and scientists
decree that students will make do with
Nothing.
Supperless
I’m banished to my room. I must redo
my fourth grade science project.