The Telephone

I grew up with you
Your ring meant hours
       Of happy chatting
            Making plans
            Confiding upsets

Of connecting with my friends.

I grew strong with you
My hearing made acute
            Straining for nuances
My jaws made firmer
            Laughing and talking.

 

I grew wary of you
Never dreamt you could turn foe
After years of constant touch.
When I connect with my friend
Who else are you letting in?

 

Aileen Lau Guek Lin
6 November 1992