RED RAG

Turbulent life

Like a red rag to a bull

is life

the very life we live

 

all around the spears shine

glittering in the harsh sunlight

there is no water - no relief

on this sun-scorched plain

stepping on the sharp stones

seeking an oasis

which is nothing but a mirage, a vision, a hope

That crumbles even as you touch it

 

the powdery sand fills your eyes

and even as you walk

the vultures circle overhead

even beside you, there is a spear

and with every step you make

there is a viper waiting

menacingly

 

they all want your blood

 

the red rag is waved

a signal

that a sacrifice must be made

 

falling into invisible holes

darkness engulfing you

evil suffocating you

you cannot trust the hand

that pulls you out

 

there is no way out

 

Victim

The bell tolls just for you

And even as you drown

Harsh, mocking laughter surrounds you

Taunting, scorning

In their triumph

 

They all hate you and seek to destroy

 

Everywhere you turn

The spears follow

Your skin is bruised and bleeding

Torn by the sharp, cruel thorns

In your path

The healing balm on your wounds

Is just a temporary relief

And when you turn away

Thankfully

Derisive laughter follows you

It was only pretence

The balm was surface-deep

 

The red rag tightens around your heart

Oh, the pain is too much!!

Blinded by rich red liquid

Flowing and soaking the dry sands

Nests of vipers lie everywhere

As the empty land mocks you in your despair

And the one you thought to be your friend

Laughs

And mocks you too

 

And the viper smiles happily

 

There are threats everywhere

you are no longer safe…

above you, the vultures circle……

waiting for the kill

the mountains echo your despairing cry

and time stands still

 

the red rag is squeezed

tighter and tighter

draining your life's blood on the sand

yet they are not satisfied

though you fight for your life

they will only be glad

when you are dead

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reviews

[R J Askew]

Sustained imagery of menace. Can feel that sand in the eyes.

[Dark Priestess]

LOL!!! Thank you!!!

[Hebe]

You are very talented.... your words make an impression. I felt the fight for survival, very powerful!

[Dark Priestess]

Thank u so much, Hebe. I write best when I am either angry or feeling some strong emotion!!!