The woman was not an exemplary
Mother. Anxious and garroulous,
Overprotective, she pushed me to do
Things which she'd hoped to do. She
Chased off my father in favor
Of some smarmy guy with more
Money, who strung her along,
But couldn't be bothered to divorce
His wife. Now 92, she exists in
Las Vegas, a specter who dozes all
Day on her couch, steps away from
A blaring TV. I called her last fall.
It was after my birthday, which she
Hadn't noticed. She seemed to be
Busy and said she'd call back. Five
Months have passed and the phone
Hasn't rung. I could call her, but would
There be a point? It's quite clear that
I've ceased to exist her mind, and, in turn,
She means nothing to me.