I Knew Her Once

I knew her once, But it was a long time ago. Yet she knew me better, Than my own ego. I knew her once, With few memories to pass. Though her beauty and elegance, Remained with her class. I knew her once, Realizing it wouldn't work. As failure became manifest, Outweighing any perk. I knew her once, Well enough to leave a mark. One that couldn't be erased, And never create a spark. I knew her once, When she was beyond any rage. Where a calm and measured jury, Would convict any age. I knew her once, Before my love could be free. Only to doubt it would return, And if it did . . . empty? I knew her once, While sharing great pain. Though sadly, little joy, As if an unsightly stain. I knew her once, Yet when it was over, we were broke. While traveling separate ways, As if all a big joke. I knew her once, And that once was enough. Since I couldn't take anymore, I'm just not that tough.