If Memory Serves me Well

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Specular fugue poem: A basic mirror poem with a twist:

In free verse.

Two stanzas in equal number of lines.
The 1^st stanza may be mundane.
The 2^nd stanza repeats the lines of the 1^st stanza in exact reverse line order (eg the 1^st line of the 2^nd stanza lines up with the last line of the 1^st stanza), BUT not identical in phrasing:
1. Each line refracts into fugue, i.e. a disturbed state of consciousness.
2. Includes one tether word or phrase from each of the corresponding lines.
3. The tenses may be changed to suit the poem, or the semantics, eg drapes and curtains.

NOTE: (Line 7) loud here means bright or gaudy.

Collated papers filed and the bills paid as the kettle whistled invitingly. My son’s laughter drifting in through the window— I have forgotten to close the billowing drapes. A sempiteral tableau. An ephemeral scene crowds in: The loud curtains tucking at my memory; my son’s voice trapped in distress. The kettle whimpered as it boiled dry— old papers flutter in my periphery …

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Richard Lamoureux

Date: 7/16/2025 11:12:00 AM

I like the contrast between stanzas.

Suzette Richards
Date: 7/16/2025 12:26:00 PM

I enjoy contrasts in poems - I find it intriguing to offset ideas/perspectives. Thanks for the visit, Rick.