Survival

Broken, undeniable pain,
as time blinks. A second
to consider with wavering breath,
the necessity to fight back
Instead just lay what used to be mine
at his feet, I will be fine.

You have no idea what the years have cost
or how much I have paid. It could be that you
never cared to inquire. You are nothing
but a vague sense of loss,
And instead of mourn you, as would time
I declare my peace, I will be fine.

With ruby cheeks and puckered lips
a complexion as pale as salt and water
that climbs me in the evening to whisper
how you can't control yourself, and that you
are sorry. You smear my leaking eyes
and pretend, as I do, that I will be fine.

Except that in my mind I see you now
open door and eerie shadow
you tip toe but your breath thunders
trespass and I brace myself, prepared
to let you have me, inclined
to let you know, I will be fine.

if you ask me each and every time
your filthy tongue seek my lips
and filthy hands would seek to grasp
what was never yours, myself
a child, you a father, mine
but don't you worry daddy, I will be fine.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Smith.
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