Dulled amber metal, a stone without sparkle,
once twinkled in a toddler’s tiny fingertips.
Whirled into the cave beneath the water.
Ceramic throne that first summoned the beast.
      A battle barely survived, scars eternally etched.
      Shrieking, taunting death. Rage in its fists,
      venomous spit. Pausing only to catch a breath.

Faded black ink, paper frail and tattered,
gently folded to preserve the fragile magic.
Keepsake from a place once thought safe.
Torn by talons from its bound inner pages.
      The creature doesn’t sleep. Ripped me away
      from beneath my sheets. It yelled; it beat.
      Carried my flesh between clenched teeth.

Crisp evening air, salt-sprinkled gusts of night,
hitting the skin through hooded sweatshirts.
Ice cream on the porch past bedtime. These
Summer treats live in a stranger’s memories.
      The monster spoke of cherries on sweet cream,
      a lavish lure to its lair. Once there, only tears
      touched my lips. Its grip carved into my skin.

Souvenirs of survival buried deeply in dark places.
Abrasions. Mementoes kept hidden in grayness.
Bid to the burning bowl they're now set ablaze in.

Began 04/07/2026 | Process notes available.