I really wanted to write for this week’s dVerse when I saw the “prosery” would be based on “Love After Love” by Derek Walcott. This poem just spoke to me at this point in time. But since I’m running out of time, I’ve written something that isn’t quite there for me yet. Sometime in the near future, I’ll explore again.
The Stranger (144 words)
That summer afternoon soldered in her memory. His fingers caressing her jaw. The sultry scent of honeysuckle so thick she tasted its sweetness. His eyes sweeping over and memorizing her face.
“Marry me,” he’d implored. “This is our forever.”
Believing him, his vow of happily-ever-after, she’d agreed.
“I’m in love,” he said fifteen-years later but not with her.
She watched him pack a few possessions, say he’d return for the others. The door closed with a resounding click.
Angry more than sad she caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. Reflected in those eyes was someone she once knew yet now a stranger.
Her grandmother’s voice spilled over her, warm, glowing love. “You will love again the stranger who was your self. You’ve given so much to others. Now it’s time to give to yourself.”
Maybe the stranger could become a friend again.
Sascha Darlington
I’m so glad you joined us, Sascha! I like the way the sweetness of the opening paragraph shifts smoothly into anger when the man has left. It would make me angry too, after a promise of forever and fifteen years of marriage. A grandmother’s wisdom is precious.
sometimes selfishness can be a virtue. i hope she finds herself again.
Sadly, it’s too easy to lose yourself in love. But finding yourself again is great joy.