Prague

I thought of you
when I saw the bridges under water

I remember your house
was somewhere close to the river
and we walked the bridges late that hot night
shyly holding hands
while boats slipped underneath us

Do you remember that one lost night?
It was so long ago but I can't forget.
I wonder if you even think of me?

It was vibrantly strange time.
The communists had vanished
and you were so proud
but so afraid for your city
your country
your children
and for yourself.

I remember that hot night
and the way you called my name
as my tongue danced.

I also remember the next day.
Watching you walk from your car,
face pale
to tell me it was a mistake
to tell me you're a normal married woman
with children
with a man.

Normal.

That hurt so much
but I don't think I showed it.
Maybe I did,
I don't know or care any more
I do know I didn't cry
until the train.

I never wrote
I'm not one for letters
strange for a so-called writer
but I'm not
it's a weakness of mine
along with being
an abnormal woman.

I see it still hurts.

I'm not bitter
it wasn't love
although I thought it was
for one endless night.

Do you think of me,
your abnormal lady friend?
Have you been honest
with your daughters
when you talk of lust, love and affection?
Have you forgiven yourself?

You have my forgiveness
for what that's worth
and I hope you're safe somewhere,
warm and dry with children close by.

I don't think of you often
but memories of you
rushed back with the flooding river
and pictures of bridges underwater