Arrivederci

By Abel Naso

When did I stop knowing you?

After so long, I became conversant with you. Your scent, your energy, your mannerisms, All etched into my brain. Evidence of time spent.

My last glimpse I saw of you, I made sure to get a snapshot. Each day, behind closed eyelids, I see that expression on your face. An undying image of the person I knew.

But today, do you exude the same aroma?

Do you radiate the same passion you used to?

With nothing more to reference than that last expression, I wonder. If you were one of the pedestrians I see on my commute, Facing away, merely back side visible,

Would I recognize you?

No. I continue as I do, naivety becomes misery.