Long after the physical cravings leave, there is a remembrance, the ghost of a
desire, the thoughts of how good a drink would be. We forget the horror and only remember the good times we equate with drinking and the companionship of fellow drunks. It takes time--and often a good deal of time--to go away.
But it does leave us...if we stay sober. If we feed the ghost and drink, then the memories and desires are strengthened.