I guess I should have known
from the very beginning
that you were something special;
a reptile, or an instrument.
Coiled in your scales and mystery,
vaguely hinting at your weapons,
something sharp and made with purpose.
An irrepressible deduction.
Eyes like those are seldom hopeful,
so befitting your derision.
I was about to step off
into nowhere.
the great unknown contained your fury.
You cut me once,
cut me twice;
bit me
infecting my blood
with venom,
neurotoxins,
hallucinogens.
A cascade
came crashing down.
It’s a miracle
I’m not insane;
at least,
no one has told me so.
I’m alive.
I’m not dead;
at least,
no one has told me so.
I’m changed, but I’m new.
Who knew you were such a strange creation?
Whatever brought you here
must have really hated you,
to abandon
your allegiance.
You probably suffered alone
for a long time
before you turned into the thing you are.
Sharp edges dripping venom
to protect
a vulnerable heart.
I’m sure there’s some wisdom,
some piece of advice
that I could give to get you home,
but I think you’re better off
out here
in the darkness.
I hope you make it on your own.
Don’t cut yourself.
Seek the Sun.
Don’t let your serpent’s heart
grow too cold.
I’m glad we met;
now I know to avoid you.
HG – 2018
