I
I am stumbling, running blind
Terrified, out of my mind
Chased by them who haunt my dreams
Followed by their taunts and screams
This is where the end begins:
  Where I’m running faster; straining
Looking back I see their grins
  My heart sinks as they are gaining
My fear is immense
As I reach the fence

II
Climb! Escape! They pull me down
  So close, but still so far
I’m turned around; a glare, a frown
  I doubt they want to spar
(Had I known, incidentally
I would have acted differently)

III
Flee! Break loose and get away!
  A few steps ‘til my end
  A kick, then pain – I bend
I angered them, so I must pay
I’m shaking; can’t hear what they say
  I know what they intend–
A punch – it hurts! – I almost fall
I don’t have time to damn them all
  when one of their kicks greet me
  The ground comes up to meet me

IV
For a moment – darkness, bliss
  Could it be they’re done?
Then I’m pulled up with a hiss
  Know I cannot run
More kicks, more pain, the only sound:
Their jeers as I am spun around
  I gasp, cannot draw breath
  And fall, expecting death

V
I’ve barely touched the floor
when I’m pulled to my feet
I can’t take anymore
Head hanging in defeat
Vaguely hearing a discussion
God, I must have a concussion
This is their repercussion?
I know that I am beat

VI
I am limp in someone’s hold
Aching; barely conscious; cold
  Then I hear the roar
Pulse is racing uncontrolled
  Knowing what’s in store
I cannot fight back
  Knowing that the end is near
When he does attack
  His cry of rage is all I hear

VII
Then suddenly, I’m spun around
  Everything is blurry
A second later, on the ground
  I guess I should worry
Something’s changing in the air
Saving me, I am aware
Why or how I do not care
  I wish that he would hurry

VIII
All is still, and time has passed
I dare to close my eyes at last

10/4 2011