Often a byproduct of superintelligence, “prosopagnosia” has a very funny-sounding name ~ but living with the condition is no joke.

Brad Pitt has it. He’s on record as saying that it makes him feel like staying home, because he’s tired of hurting people’s feelings all the time.

The first time this poet can remember getting that quizzical look, and the question, “You don’t recognize me, do you?” she was in Junior High School…

… And the asker had been in her own Home Room the whole year prior.

*****

Recorded Reading (1:10): https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/vv96sy4t90yegyacfrs2q/Face-Blind.txt?rlkey=7r9cw2vi423kqwsknopfg4ceg&dl=0

*****

Face Blind

You’re walking toward me —
Do I know you?

Your hair is piled up
Like that lady’s whom I love so much
Been so kind to me
Built like her too
And she might wear that outfit

But it’s not enough
Enough
Enough
Information…

Am I hurting your feelings,
Right now
Walking past without greeting?

Believe me, it is worse
To approach someone
With a big smile
And a friendly hello!
Only to find out
They’re a stranger

Do you think I don’t care about you?
Oh, I do!
Do you think I’m cutting you?
Oh, I’m not!
Are you thinking I’m really crazy
No…

Just leaving little droplets
Of my reddest heart’s blood
All over town

Now…
You’re
Past

And for good or ill
Yet another moment
Of possibility
Goes with you

*****

Homeless until removal of the stalker/targeter/vandal/arsonist following her allows her to approach any landlord ~ even for a private parking space ~ this poet presently lives under perpetual threat of towing with all possessions should her 23-year-old van stop running for any reason.

She is badly in need of a modest reserve with which to field any emergency which might occur.

Donors may visit http://www.UgiftABLE.com , using code #72D-31S. It does take several days for the poet to be notified of your patronage.

Thank you for supporting quality in the fine arts.