forgotten guests like phantoms

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Forgotten guests like phantoms


Forgotten guests like phantoms filled my house
while you were at the opera.
Three times I turned my back and strode the hall,
my arms outstretched to greet you;
but you were at the opera.
I couldn't eat, but drank,
'til there in the chatter and rattle of plates
your face swooped in before me,
and slid me to that perfumed hush,
snug with the rustle of curtain and skirt,
and the cascade applause of the opera.


Philip White











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