Our time together has changed over these past few months. What once was an uninterrupted stream of conversation that felt like a long walk through our old neighborhood—familiar, filled with memories—is now staccato-like thoughts expressed in limited vocabulary. Her memories, stored like jars on a shelf, opened only when she has the mental strength to do so. I see the struggle in her eyes to piece together words to go with whatever picture floats through her mind. If only I could see the label on the jar to help her open it, like I did with the pickles so many years ago.
my love, my wife ~
memories remain…even
if locked away
2015-10-28
P. Wanken
Shared at Margo’s Wordgathering
Another poem written in memory of my Grandma Grace,
who struggled her final years with Alzheimer’s Disease,
and my Grandpa Leroy, who cared for her until the end.
echoes from the silence 
My favourite form. I love haibuns. This line is wonderful: If only I could see the label on the jar to help her open it, like I did with the pickles so many years ago.
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I like the haibun, too, margo…it’s a good option when my mind just wants to write without thinking about syllables, line breaks, and rhyme schemes. It’s almost like a free-write for me. I know the trailing haiku wouldn’t be viewed as a traditional haiku, but I went with it anyway. And…glad you like the pickle line. 🙂
Thanks for the prompt!
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Oh my … poetically inspiring, from creative title to final expression. Powerful poem from a powerfully humble poet. I love you, my friend.
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Thank you, Marie…glad you liked the title. It came to me in a flash after I wrote the rest. Thanks for your encouragement! ❤
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If only I could see the label on the jar to help her open it, like I did with the pickles so many years ago….. that strikes a nerve. So sad (but wondeful poem)
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The poem came together in less than 5 minutes…that image really struck a chord with me and for some reason I instantly thought of my grandparents. My grandmother passed away after her struggle with Alzheimer’s. Thanks for visiting and for your comments, Debi.
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Just stunning, Paula. The thought of being able to label thought like jars…OH.
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Thanks, de…glad you liked it. I truly enjoy ekphrastic poetry. Something jumps into my head in a flash and spills onto the page. I just love when it actually spills out in an organized manner! 😉
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So so beautifully done. Gave me one of those warm little shivers at the end when I read about your gran.
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Thanks, Misky…I’ve written a few with Grandma Grace in mind.
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