Marion Strobel

From “Perennials”

I SEE myself meeting you.

I will wear the blue dress—

It is unobtrusive, you cannot dislike it;

And the hat with the flowers—

You once said you liked flowers on a hat.

I have bought new gloves

And pretty shoes that hurt.

Unconsciously I will get to your office,

I will walk up behind you—

Do you know you are getting quite gray?

I say your name quietly;

You swing around in your chair.

While you shake my hand

I feel myself in your arms:

I do not hear your polite, cordial voice say,

“This is indeed a pleasure.”