It Didn't Concern Me

"It Didn't Concern Me" is a poem by Matthew S. Breslau. It was first published on November 14th, 2018.

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I got the text. It came in while I was relaxed. “She’s leaving.” I shot up; hit my head on the bunk above. Waved off the pain and stumbled to find my sneakers. “What’s going on?” “She’s leaving,” I answered, Stepping out into the main room. I reeled back; “I’m so sorry,” I said, Averting my eyes from the sight of your Beautiful bare legs As they met my view By accident. “It doesn’t matter, I don’t care,” Was your response, Said tersely from anger Not directed at me But directed through me, Anger directed at another. “Must you go?” I said, In my extra-formal way, My body twitching from the thought of This immediate loss. “Some people can’t take a joke,” you said, Throwing on pants, finally, Though my attention was at your eyes as you spoke. You marched down the stairs without a goodbye, But I followed. I followed you, I followed them, Down the stairs. I rushed, and donned no coat To protect my shivering heart From the cold that would make my body match; I convulsed and shook as I walked, pained To your window as you Started the engine– “Please, let me know when you get home,” I said, You smiled and said, “Go inside and warm up.” “I will, just–just—just let me know when you get home.” You nodded and said you would. She came to my side and Put her hand on my back “I’m sorry,” she said. “Things were going so well,” she added. “Were they?” I asked, Truly confused. I stumbled back up the stairs and looked At the bed you left empty And resolved to finish the night Wrapped in your blankets. As I slept, I inhaled your scent. As I awoke, I inhaled it again. I awoke, listening to words of anger from Three others. I awoke, checking my phone for the message, But there was none. I lay back, inhaling once more, Analyzing. Putting things in perspective. Not knowing what side to take. Resolving to say nothing. Resolving to do nothing. Resolving only to wish I could see you again.