-- What I Remember and Forget --

By John Herlihy

You will be surprised what I don’t remember,

So much happened with no need to recall.

A waste bin of all I forget, but those feelings tender,

Treasured memories I could never part with at all.

Forgive me if I have forgotten your name,

We met a few times under the parapets of Istanbul.

Why, even your face has blurred, leaving me in shame,

But there you have it, it’s not a question of will.

What about that dreadful day when I was betrayed,

The lies and deceit that could never be forgiven.

Feelings of anguish, revenge even that should have stayed,

Now pungent smoke and dreamy mist, by the wind driven.

What will never surprise you is what I never forget,

Each precious moment that never knew of vain regret.

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(c) John Herlihy 18 April 2019