I searched for you in old photographs
in the scribbles within the saffron margins
of your discarded books
I searched for you in the echo of your inane laughter
in the dusty records of your sullen melodies and the wandering tune
of your acoustic guitar
I searched for you in the scent of muddy cologne
in the fetid rubble standing in place of the
house you burned down
I searched for you in the salt of their tears
in the disgruntled whispers of those
who knew you before
I searched for you in the sting of my cheek
in the festering callus dimly throbbing with
the ache of remembrance
I searched for you throughout the night
but only found your absence
I searched for you til time stole your sway
and then I woke one morning to find you in the mirror