An Orphan Shirt

In the seventies we watched a television import from Britain, Rumpole of the Bailey. Rumpole, an ageing barrister who accepted any and all clients, had a wife named Hilda who would gladly see him advance to Head of Chambers, something Rumpole didn't want. Although his wife was not a shrew, in my husband's words, she was commander of the household.

When I saw this t-shirt in a thrift store in the States, I knew I had to have it for its sentimental value, as Rumpole referred to his wife as "she who must be obeyed". At times Tracy has called me this, usually said in good humor at opportune times. However, before returning to Zambia, I realized it was a shirt that would have to be worn in the privacy of my own home. Since returning, I've only worn it twice.

Culturally this shirt would be frowned upon, as men are the supreme rulers in their homes. While Zambian women do oversee their households, men are the ones who must be obeyed, not women. Because I chafe at this at times, I have wondered if I'm related to her! Clearly, die-hard Hildas and her "children" would not make it here in Zambia. But, I still like and wear the shirt!