«He doesn't smile at me like he used too…» — Summary

He doesn't smile at me like he used too He doesn't enjoy our time together anymore He doesn't save my pictures, not even the best ones. In the beginning he was who I wanted and he showed me that he wanted me, but now I feel like he doesn't care As if I was a piece of plastic that he found and kept until he found a recycling bin As if this was a game for him Who can crumble the other first? Who can pin the mess on the problem? There's not much more I can give him. I've given him my trust, love and loyalty. The younger me would look and be disgusted with myself today After all the insults, lies and manipulation I don't know how long I can fight for a future that doesn't have a chance to survive.

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The speaker is describing a relationship that has gone cold, and the pain of being the only one still trying. The poem starts with small, specific losses: a smile that has disappeared, time together that no longer feels enjoyable, photos that aren't saved. These details make the hurt feel real, because it's the little signs of affection that are missing.

The images get harsher as it goes on. Being treated like a piece of plastic kept until a recycling bin turns up suggests she feels disposable. The questions about who can "crumble the other first" and who can "pin the mess on the problem" make the relationship sound like a contest of blame rather than a partnership. The speaker also says she has given trust, love and loyalty, and mentions insults, lies and manipulation.

The mood is tired and resigned, with a quiet sadness rather than anger. The last line says she doesn't know how long she can keep fighting for a future that can't survive, and that leaves the poem on a note of exhaustion and doubt.

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