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Writer's pictureE.T.Milligan

Down Memory Lane: A Poem by E.T. Milligan

from the poetry book ‘Images of Life’


Down Memomry Lane: a poem from the poetry book "Image of Life" by E.T. Milligan

I wrote this poem after watching An American in Paris. It made me reflect on the bittersweet journey of supporting the love of your life as they pursue their dream of a dance career in Paris, even when it means letting go.



Down Memory Lane A Poem by E.T. Milligan


we were all but twenty when,

our kind of dance was different then,

the feeling in our hearts were not,

the memory of that waltz remains,

the tipping of your heels, the same,

a waltz that I had not forgot


we’d stroll the promenade ‘till ten,

then dance away ‘till evening’s end

a fantasy’s forgotten charm.

no hopes to share your company

came shattered, clear as I could see

you dancing in another’s arms


‘twas only fate that brought me here

the bars were closed, no taxis near

as was the night, ten years before

i stood amid the ballroom light

looked crossed the stage at my heart’s delight,

yet, just a stare and nothing more


remembering well, the night you flew

to Paris France, to start a ‘new

a tearful end, a final dance

a sad good-bye, a subtle kiss,

careers at crossroads, far remiss

from what was once a true romance


though candlelight and Eiffel’s view

inspired hopes to start anew

the ocean travel couldn’t mend

my broken dreams and wary mind

lost in feeble hopes to find

a ways to bridge our distant ends


now, yesterday must fill the space

what future hopes cannot embrace,

and leaves me with a woeful pain

despite reunion’s clever sign

rekindled hearts must now resign

to strollin’ down, memory lane.


Copyright © Edward T. Milligan, 2005

All rights reserved.

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The Difference A Poem by E.T. Milligan

If you enjoyed Down Memory Lane, I invite you to explore another heartfelt piece: The Difference. This brief yet profound poem delves into self-belief and the power of mindset—what truly sets us apart is not our abilities but the belief in our potential.

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