The End

by Carol Pederson

You visit my dreams, an unwanted happening after the end
We had. I never thought you’d be so lasting, after the end.

I wear your sweatshirt, the big black one, with the pockets
Ripped out at the edges. I kept the best thing, after the end.

I left my inhaler, my nametag, half my earrings, you name it,
In the box you made. I realized this unpacking, after the end.

You stole The Old Man and The Sea from me. I heard you
had misgivings. You must admit it was fitting, after the end.

I have begun to grow doubts on the windowsills, like herbs.
Would you still tell me you like my phrasing, after the end?

A disposable camera with my proof of you not developed. Did
You not want pictures because you knew, asking after the end?

I met one of your friends a while ago, he cautiously brought
Up the subject of you. Have you been talking, after the end?

Carol. Sometimes, at oddly unassigned hours, sprinkled in
Mundane thoughts, I think I hear you calling, after the end.


Notes
Poetry
Published in Windfall Vol. 32
All rights reserved


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