Poetry Pick: Planet Hollywood

Walking across the shore
some half hour from where
we had our first date,
I did not expect the waves
to hit me so far on land.

In a moment, I’m taken to
your eyes across the table.
To the way your nose crinkles
as you crack your first smile
over something funny,
that probably wasn’t too much so.

A camera flash brings me around
and I turn to not even a shadow
Of your presence
Breathing in saltwater
Wondering why your heart beats just
a tad faster with her,
and why you failed to mention it.

I sort myself out just enough
to exchange pleasantries
with a stranger I’m much less interested in.
Lately, I’m unrecognizable.

Claire E. Yune