Am I an afternoon's pastime? 
a thing on a string 
to be thrown and retrieved 
like a phone call received 
on somebody's birthday 
to tease and delight 
and then say goodnight 
and then just say goodbye? 
 
Am I a toy on a tray ? 
a soft piece of clay 
queen or clown for the day 
machine ballerina 
soldier of tin 
standing so loyal 
while you sit so royal 
then I'm put away? 
 
For your approval, 
perusal, 
and your possible 
refusal, 
I'm amusing, 
I'm a puppet for your play. 
 
Am I your Mad Magazine? 
skin trampoline 
pin-up pinball machine 
your fantasy girl 
of puzzling parts 
but none fits or starts 
we match wits but not hearts 
I'm heard but never seen? 
 
For your approval, 
perusal, 
and your possible 
refusal, 
I'm amusing, 
I'm a puppet for your play.