Almost Familiar

Wrapped in silence
He stood by the wall,
Almost familiar
But hard to recall.

Was he a neighbour
Who'd moved away?
Should we know his name?
I couldn't say.

Forgotten flashes
Of memory
Rose like a banner,
"Remember me?"

His total aloofness
Screamed of the past.
He seemed so alone,
I approached him at last.

I welcomed him
But I think he heard
The curious nature
Beneath each word.

"No, I'm a stranger."
Was all he said,
But instant denial
Whirled in my head.

Yet I couldn't push him.
That isn't my way,
Though he stood like a haunting
From yesterday.

© 2002  Pam H. Murray

Apr 23, 2002