What if I were wiser, heeded the cautionary tale?

The ancients tried to warn us, but we were caught up in its gale.

Left my chest locked, took her example in regard…

Would I have been so daring? Been so avantgarde?

Is it possible to be trapped with the thoughts in my head?

Or toss and turn in cold sweat, thoughts soaking through my bed?

Would I have been idle, so much left unexplored?

What use would I have, then, for my spirit’s aching sword?

To think there existed a choice to live blissful and free

Of the aches of emotion and the ruptures of misery.

But, and for the life of me, the aches enduringly resonate,

My stomach churns and joins my climbing heart rate,

For all your grace, your mind, your complexion,

You’ve culled from my lips the cry for affection.