sounds of footsteps nearby
silence leaves, broken
closed eyes yield darker thoughts
open and gaze on imminent horrors

inanimate laughter surrounds
hands paralyze in turmoil
a cold chill creeps up the spine
rooted legs refuse to run

***
breathe! don't forget,
breathe through the burning,
breathe the cold inside,
breathe because you can!!
***

something metal penetrates
a slow pealing of skin
majestic flows the blood
reveals the artist within

laughter ensues, yours
embrace the good fortune
smile together now
your creation was profound.