Vaguely Familiar

A poem I’ve written from the point of view of a person with dementia

You look vaguely familiar
as I examine your face
but I just can’t remember you…
and, what is this place?

These walls are not mine
it doesn’t feel like my home
these sheets are so scratchy
and don’t smell like my own

I’m looking right at you
but I see none too clear
I just cannot think straight
why oh why am I here?

This room seems so small
I feel I can’t breathe
No! I don’t want those pills
I just want to leave!

Stop trying to feed me
I’m not hungry right now
I’ll eat when I’m ready
I’ve just forgotten how

Please don’t be cross with me
I don’t mean to shout
I’m still in here somewhere
I do want to get out

The person I once was
fades a little more each day
I try hard to hold on
I’m sure I have things to say

Was I a teacher, doctor or lawyer
or maybe a film star, with a glittering
career?
Maybe a cleaner, driver, shop worker?
Oh what does it matter? There’s no
class divide here

My memories have almost gone
it’s all just blank spots
My head feels so fuzzy
I can’t connect the dots

I know you’re talking to me
but my words just won’t come
I think I should know you
but instead I feel numb

You come each day to see me
I just stare into space
but you look vaguely familiar
as I examine your face…