photo albums

i reach up onto
the high shelf and pull
down the dusty
bin full of books
and pictures, old cards,
mementos from lovers
and friends.
I look through
the photo albums
at the hundreds of pictures
and try
to get a clue
as to what was, what
the deal
was then.
are the smiles real,
the kisses
that sweet, or is there
darkness
when the camera is turned
away.
the hands, and body in
retreat.
that birthday cake,
the meal
on the table, the gifts
unwrapped.
the cards
saying love. what was it.
why so brief.
what happened.