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Coming Out, Circa 1973

Bill Tope

It was Sunday, at daybreak, and 19-year-old
Denise walked up to her father as he stood
on the bank of the pond on their property. She
hesitated as he cast a line into the water.
“Dad,” she said, “can I tell you something?”
As he reeled in his line he looked up at her
adoringly. “Sure, Honey, you can tell me
anything.”

Denise took a breath, told him, “I’m gay, Dad.”
The smile lines crinkled his eyes. “I know,
Honey.” She blinked. “You do?” she asked.
“Of course; I can see it on your face.” She
stared at him. “I’m gay, too,” he added.

She shook her head in wonder. “Since when?”
“Well,” he said, “ever since I got married and
found Christ and started my business and had
all you kids. I’m a happy man,” he concluded,
smiling. As he went back to his fishing, Denise
turned to leave, remarking, “Nice talking to
you Dad; I knew you’d understand.”

 

This poem first appeared in Little Old Lady Comedy.

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