April 28, 2021

Ghosted

If you’re going to go, just go,
sneer the seemingly-healthy. They tell you
that announcing your departure from anywhere
before you go is all about seeking attention
and drama. Just ghost the party, the friends,
the community. No need to announce the exit,
sneer the seemingly-healthy. The ones
who feel entitled
to owe no one else a damn thing.

I think of the ones I knew
who just left, ghosting from parties,
news feeds, friend lists;
I count the ones
who then slew themselves
before we knew they were gone.

I think of the ones
who made some gesture
before departure, something
dramatic, clumsy; some outcry;
I count the ones
who are still here
because someone responded.

Don’t hang up, I used to plead.
I’d hang on as long as I could hear them
still there, still breathing.

No one uses a phone that way anymore.
Now I send a begging text, an instant message,
a public post —

You still here?
Why don’t you respond?

About Tony Brown

A poet with a history in slam, lots of publications; my personal poetry and a little bit of daily life and opinions. Read the page called "About..." for the details. View all posts by Tony Brown

This entry was posted on Wednesday, April 28th, 2021 at 5:57 am and tagged with meditations, poems, poetry and posted in poetry. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.

5 responses to “Ghosted”

Eileen
April 28th, 2021 at 4:43 pm

hits home. lost two friends who gave up the struggle of life. I tried to listen and support, but couldn’t be enough. Have one dying now from cancer – bitter and angry and once again can’t find words…. can only sit helplessly…..

Reply
- Tony Brown
  April 29th, 2021 at 12:17 pm
  
  I’m so sorry. It’s a terrible thing.
  
  Reply
Little Charmer
April 28th, 2021 at 4:00 pm

Brilliant is my response.
Just brilliant 👍🖤

Reply
- Tony Brown
  April 29th, 2021 at 12:16 pm
  
  thank you
  
  Reply
  - Little Charmer
    April 29th, 2021 at 3:52 pm
    
    You’re most welcome my friend 🖤