Memory (1969) Poem by Pamela Butler

The dissolutions all have been abrupt
The cracking limb that left a jagged edge,
A flourishing rapport becomes corrupt,
As underground, bad feelings form a wedge.

It comes on gradually, the chilling cold.
The autumn leaves still dazzle as they fall
And flares of laughter, promises so bold
Retreat, but slowly, into winter's pall.

When looking back upon those other days,
When stars were bright and fireflies stitched the night,
Once soft as velvet, deep and dark we lay,
The fear your hands betrayed kept out of sight.

If Wisdom were a gift for someone young
Such memories as these would not have stung.