Mermaids and Other Things I Miss About You
Mermaids and Other Things I Miss About You
The science teacher showed your writing
as an example in class today
and even though
he cut off the name, I knew
it was you.
The way you make your y's and f's
hasn't changed
since third grade,
since us.
I know every letter in the alphabet of you
from secret messages
we sent each other.
I can picture you writing
in your careful way
how every letter is perfect
neat and timid just like
you.
Later,
I told you that I thought
your science writing was really good,
I didn't say all the things I thought
when I saw it,
about mermaids that you drew and cut out
and sent to me,
about the song we wrote
(mostly you)
for the talent show,
about the birthday presents you used to give,
the best ever.
Maybe I don't get to care
because we're not really friends
anymore
but when I see you in the halls
I think about your neat-timid letters
and mermaids
and poetry
and homemade bread
and how I miss you.
The Voice
February 2025
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