Smoke Rings
By
Jude Kyrie*


Life is meant to look forward.
Not back where I should forget
Yet even will the faded years
When I see you Annette.

Misty colored memories come
From a time that’s long ago.
Drifting into the smoke rings
From a thousand cigarettes.

My cigarette is just an ash line
as it burns up in the tray
I am playing the piano
a tune from another day.

I see her clear and carefree
I remember her once again
She turns those lovely eyes on me.
I see my love for you back then.

We could have had a life together
If only I had been free.
I remember her lips
so curved and crimson,
As I dreamt them  kissing me


My fingers across the piano keys
Her favorite song I play
I can play this tune with ease.
Just like I did  back in the day

The old crowd they all sing-along
It"s such a catchy song.
Then I look beside me
you were standing there all along.

I say Its you there sweet Annette.
She touches my head
and says, Harry Are you alright?
Your eyes are red and wet.

I look up into her lovely face
I'm drowning in regret.
Yes, I am  just fine darling.
It’s just the smoke
from my forgotten cigarette.