there are guys
whose rippling impression
vanishes like a paddle upon water
dance partners, set ups, and weirdoes as forgotten as cancelled
magazine subscriptions

animals fare better
marvel at the house mouse
unforgettable, as he flees your wrath
65 mph, he's history

God gave him the skills to cope, to live
in your mind, burrow under your skin
he's a grey blur of freedom from you
so independent yet living off crumbs
each night, you wonder
where is he?

***

Allison Whittenberg has given poetry readings in New York, Philadelphia, and Minneapolis. She is the author of two novels SWEET THANG, HOLLYWOOD AND MAINE, and LIFE IS FINE (Random House 2006, 2007, 2008). allisonwhittenberg.com