Artefacts

Whenever I cut open a fresh mango, it reminds me of my stalker. Why? Before we broke up and he commenced his unwelcome behaviour, he showed me the best way to extract the fruit's flesh. That was a long time ago, and the connection seems laughable.

This made me consider artefacts from other relationships.

I've effectively exorcised memories of my miserable marriage. Even when I see my ex-wife, it's hard to believe we were ever together. But some things still remind me. I use a workout routine from a book she gave me. Also, certain gestures Marian makes, the way she carries herself.

Watching a sunset reminds me of colour-blind Dan, who asked me to describe one. Or walking in the snow under a full moon.

My wardrobe is still influenced by Mike, the graphic artist who persuaded me to wear mostly black. And I acquired his fondness for architecture.

A net scrubber from The Body Shop reminds me of Aubrey.

And what about the man in my life now? Danny has given me knitting and an appreciation for cheesy films. And I can't walk down a forest path at dusk without remembering certain Friday evenings. That's just for starters.