the line was long
slinking down the aisle
but no one had more
than five items in hand
the coins in his pocket
felt heavy as he stood
but not as heavy as
the perfume of the girl
in front of him that
lingered under his nose
it reminded him of that
vacation to Hawaii when
they were both happy
no – he would not let
his mind wander there
so he played with the coins
in his pocket to remember
that he was in New Jersey
in the dead of winter
and not that warm paradise
that continued to haunt him
So sad, Such memories do keep popping up, do they not? Even long after.
ReplyDeleteThose moments of waiting is when it's hardest to keep the memories at bay.
ReplyDeleteLonging and absence described well!
ReplyDeleteYes, yes, been there... A marvellous write that really hits the spot
ReplyDeleteOur memories are such that keep lingering on even after the time has passed... sigh...
ReplyDeleteI hope he finds happiness.
ReplyDeleteSometimes it is hard not to let your mind wander...such is sorrow and regret.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas!
Anna :o]
That long line can make one really miserable ~
ReplyDeleteWishing you Happy Holidays ~
Hawaii may haunt him but this poem haunts me.
ReplyDeleteCheers,
Mark
Thank you everyone.
ReplyDeleteNice interplay between the coins in his pocket and the memories in his head. I like that in-depth connection. Well done!
ReplyDeleteIt is saddening to remember a happier time after it has passed and things have changed. The holidays can have that effect on many people for sure.
ReplyDelete