The Answer

You have returned?
— But not to stay.
Just time to gather up a few old rags
Then go away.

I’m fine.
Only your voice betrays a certain awkward agitation
Do you recall ...
You look away
Years have increased their beauty? —

Fond thoughts you say.
A drink? — A cigarette? —

Of course not, How soon the years forget.

So soon?
Only remember, remember winter tags on close to Summer.

You will return —
— But shall not stay
Each visit leave apart of you
And die away.

A while away
And now Good-bye,
Good — and God, by.

by Lorna Bain — December 29th, 1985