I Remember, But I Forgot

I Remember, But I Forgot

by Kelp

I remember I was grieving
But I forgot what for.

I remember the pain
But I forgot what caused it.

I remember it was a day to be sad
But I forgot it was a national calamity.

I remember the terror of being alone
But I forgot the terror of those who died before me.

I remember we sat on the floor
But I forgot why that was important.

I remember there were flames
But I forgot that they were burning books.

I remember I was supposed to remember
But I forgot why any of it mattered.

I remember that I am
But I forgot who I am.