i understood

setting fire to the misplaced,
mismatched threads-
maladroit pleated-squares
of a warm, well-adjusted haven.
"i gave you that sweater."
yes, and as it drapes me
loosely like a lover's grip
losing interest,
losing heart

i feel so small and sheepish.
silent, sullen sinews
that i have sunken into,
though: "i'm so glad you are here."
yes, words fall out
faintly from my coward eyes about
losing interest,
losing heart

i understood

that when you left there'd be
no goodbyes

i understood