The Impression Poem by RIC BASTASA

over a cup of coffee
you begin to talk about social studies

her eyes gaping wide
her pupils dilated

it's about a woman depressed
her husband left her
for another man

crazy, she laughs, she cries
she sobs

she loves him still, despite
crazy, she laughs, she cries, she sobs

we are alone now
as i get another cup

she warns
i may not be able to sleep tonight

caffeine is inconsistent with
contentment

lousy, i am lousy
i said to myself as i leave and close the door behind me

she opens a book
and hides her blush.