Dept. of Speculation

by Jenny Offill

Memories are microscopic. Tiny particles that swarm together and apart.

For years, I kept a Post-it note above my desk. WORK NOT LOVE! was what it said. It seemed a sturdier kind of happiness.

I saw the tattoo I wished my life had warranted. If you have not known suffering, love me.

Nothing is better for man than a good wife, and no horror matches a bad one.