Christopher Morley

Here you will find the Poem Washing the Dishes of poet Christopher Morley

Washing the Dishes

WHEN we on simple rations sup 
How easy is the washing up! 
But heavy feeding complicates 
The task by soiling many plates.

And though I grant that I have prayed 
That we might find a serving-maid, 
I'd scullion all my days I think, 
To see Her smile across the sink!

I wash, she wipes. In water hot 
I souse each pan and dish and pot; 
While taffy mutters, purrs, and begs, 
And rubs himself against my legs.


The man who never in his life 
Has washed the dishes with his wife 
Or polished up the silver plate- 
He still is largely celibate.

One warning: there is certain ware 
That must be handled with all care: 
The Lord Himself will give you up 
If you should drop a willow cup!