I find it remarkable
that I always say I’m scared,
scared that people will run away
as soon as they notice my true self
still I reveal it to one and all,  
to anyone who will listen
I think maybe it’s because
I hope they will run away
that they will think I’m mad and bizarre
ill – absurd – ludicrous
so I can capture all their contempt
and hide it inside my chest
and continue to live in the darkness
where self-hatred represents all
that is where I feel secure

because no-one can hurt someone
who has already been beaten down