Winter

You had said once
its only natural
to leave - never to return ..

Fragrance,  you said
in its sweet transience
fades away like
rain drop ripples
on puddled  water.

When u left
I still hadnt finished my tea
its ephemeral warmth
lingering like
a sluggish morning kiss.


You never returned

But the wintry mist returns
again
sunless afternoons 
and the wild fragrance of
white flowers


Who shall I envy now ?

I used to look for
myself in your verse

Breathe deep
the fragrance of my cologne
in the alleys of your lines
Water colour days of
brewing morning coffee
and maple leaves

noxious smoke fills
the streets now
The fresh
paint on walls and
doors smells of
turpentine
 

It has been three days
I have not looked at the mirror