Nightmare

 Like a dream,

the way legs move and go nowhere,

I speak.

The words pour out, but he hears nothing.

So I scream.

And all the people laugh.

She talks so loud,

they scorn!

But they don't see that he wont hear.

So I am the wailing woman.

Twisting and turning so no hold can be had.

Teeth.

Wide eyes.

Prowling shoulders.

Stomping feet and slamming doors.

He reins shame over me. 

Bends me - breaks me.

The water I'm held under is shallow

but the grip is firm.

I sputter mercy and hold white flags.

singing things I don't mean like forever

I still say my prayers.

But I dream red with a mouthful of flesh