Always Remember Poem by RIC BASTASA

always remember that when
a fake dog
takes a poise on your sofa
at the middle of your
living room
or your study

try looking
try listening carefully

it never barks.
it is your silly puppy without a mommy
that barks

in the mirror. barking at its image
waggling its tail

the fake ones
do not bark, remember that, and i know that you know
that i know about this plasticity
between us.

it is you that barks
almost every morning when i begin to write a poem
and all the while for years and years
i have always been silent.

that is the difference between us.
and let me tell the obvious. do not be hurt.

i am fake and you are true.you are angry and i never was once.
you breathe. i don't anymore.