INFLUENCES

 

INFLUENCES

Cautious of permeable influences—
love, I suppose, chief among them.
Comfortable in self-mockery,
laughing at my own folly,
but only when ego stands firm,
both feet planted on solid ground. Retracted into introspection's shell,
I'm quick to repel any threat
to my fragile inner equilibrium.
Caught off guard, amusement flees;
defensiveness surges,
armed with a tongue like sharpened claws. Love compels me to confront every facet,
confessing the jealousy lurking just beneath.
I'm no stranger to humanity's shadows—
slamming doors, muttered curses—
they claim me as readily as any. Frightened by love's unyielding grip,
the truth strikes: some emotions dwarf me.
Swallowing honesty raw,
stripped of excuses and blame's veils.