Poetry – The Beast That Lurks – Sarah Nikaj

That Lurks The Beast

His heavy steps pound across the floor. Close your door a little more.

Stay quiet. Run to the bathroom. Go under the blanket and pretend you’re asleep. If you can’t in time, play it safe. Avoid eye contact with him. Keep your arms up to protect your head and heart. When he arrives, this is the most you can do. If you’re lucky, he’ll lurk nearby, quietly, even silently. He might grunt or snarl a bit, but that’s the least of your worries. Do not speak up, do not make yourself seen. You remember what happens. You know what he does.

Growing furious with the slightest peep. Lashing out in rage. Clawing deeper into your skin with each slice. Wounds not even left alone for long enough to heal, but they will scar forever.

Sometimes I wish the beast would leave visible gashes, so all could see. Sometimes I even wish that the beast might one day snap my weak body within his jaws, ending my misery. I dream of running away from the beast. Of finally breaking out of this hellhole. But that’s only a fairytale. A pitiful pipe dream. Others around me have tried to get out, and have been living free for a while now. Yet the beast still holds power over us. Over all of us.

There is no escape. Only false hope. But that is enough for me.

Sarah Nikaj, 10 free verse poetry