Page 11 - Contrast1980v23n2

Razor-Edged Insults

I retreat
bleeding and maimed
into lightening filled air.
The soft earth buoys me.

I lick my wounds.
Usually
they mend quickly.
But tonight ...

whipped retorts sting
my face
cutting comments slash
at my wrists
rude remarks pierce
slap, slice, slit and rip
my body.
I leave a trail.

The first faint thunder
grumbles at my spirit.
A raindrop
splashes on my forehead.
I absorb the moisture.
But I can't
soak up the rain
fast enough.

The last red
drops of pride
drain
from my body.

Wounds that deep leave scars anyway.

Jean Elliot

9