a photo of you at twenty-three
taped to my monitor screen
shows no indication of madness
in your gentle composed smile
your stylish sunglasses
two-tone oxford saddle shoes
seated like a lotus blossom
before groomed hedges
and shirley at the pool
who insists on being my pal
speaks of you in honest praise
which is undeniable true
this evening beyond the keys
i see the carvings you etched
in the smooth flesh of my thighs
and wonder about the average
lifespan of childhood's scars