Back When

A Poem by Teresa Bulger

A poem

Back when things were beautiful and strange
When you and I were tame and unafraid of change
You'd speak in riddles and I'd dance to your tune
I envied your strength and around me you'd eagerly swoon

Now you bruise my face like you'd paint a room
I play the fool who willingly digs their own tomb
The blood is cold and I can't hear your tone
When all I hear is the sound of my own moan

Blood stains the carpet right by your feet
You laugh delightfully at such a perfect treat
I struggle to stand as blood rushes down my brow
Obviously you decide this is too much to allow

This time my nose feels slightly runny and wet
You've taken your fist and made another threat
Blood is all I taste and you're all I can see
One more time I hazily see your fist greet me

I let my body collaspe into a raging heap
You stir up more anger as I desperately weep
I feel your murderous hands grab onto my feet
The welcoming smell of death is suddenly sweet