A prisoner
of sentience
escape
self-denial

Incarcerated
deep inside
with voices
dark and vile

A prisoner
of every thought
his mind
a burning feast

The moments that
protected him
before
protect him least

A prisoner
of déjà vu
where now
and then conspire

His name convicted
to the flames
all dreams
— within the fire

(Dreamsleep: October, 2024)

Wolverine shadows
in the Michigan mist
Blood trail encampment
on yesterday’s tryst

Teeth at the ready
fortune can’t hide
Death for a tribute
— when vengeance abides

(Dreamsleep: October, 2024)

I’ve lived up
till now
with my thumb
in life’s eye
In reckless
abandon
I shucked
and I jived

No ******
was safe
no harlot
denied
The wages
of sin
my fortune
— allied

(Dreamsleep: October, 2024)

Trust
a monopoly
the fickle
must earn

Rooted
in confidence
their faith
must confirm

Trust
is a progeny
whose offspring
endures

Embraced
by the concept
all parties
— adjure

(The New Room: October, 2024)

Friendship
trumps romance
strong feelings beset
without Cupid’s cloud
the road never wet

Friendship
trumps romance
when joy turns to dread
the magic enduring
— far beyond the bed

(The New Room: September, 2024)

Secrets ...
callous on your heart
stone around your neck
cellar of respite
weight upon your soul

Deception ...
bane upon your conscience
affront to voices hiding
sire of excuses
— truth behind the mask

(Dreamsleep: October, 2024)

Emoted investment
dividends high
Buying then selling
as spirit contrives

Unlimited resource
consciousness fares
In debits and credits
— whose riches ensnare

(Dreamsleep: October, 2024)