Leftovers
I was the blank canvas
you scribbled upon.
This was meant to be
beautiful;
you made it profane.
Pinpricks of stars struck
through a black velvet scrim.
(They sung hollow in my skull –
sparking, sizzling like live wires,
the kind they always warn you
to avoid.)
Your veins laced with poison,
the only thing poisoning me
was your love.
I thought I meant more than this,
tossed upon a soiled mattress
like a pile of rubbish.
All the while, writing desperate poetry
with my tongue.
I just wanted to write something
that would please you.
(Will any of this ever please you?)
All these avenues I’ve ventured,
yet you’re the one who lingers.
I’ve always been a glutton
for punishment
(I suppose).
You’ve inflicted the greatest damage of all,
yet you’re too blind to face what remains.
Check later to read more of my story, hear more of my poems, and discover resources.

I wasn’t aware that is was domestic violence awareness month.
I’ve known friend and family in this situation. The perpetration infuriates me, I have so much empathy for the victim. It’s entrapping. Wish I could help more.
Your poem describes the affects of this well. Great writing for awareness. Thank you for this post to raise awareness.
You have the same name as my daughter! So cool.
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It doesn’t get a lot of attention because of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, in my opinion, but yes, October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I’m doing my part to increase knowledge.
It is a devastating cycle to be stuck in; I knew better. I knew the cycle of abuse when I was in it. I’d say to myself, “Well, this is the honeymoon stage. Just wait,” and yet, he had me so isolated, fearful, and so financially ruined, I couldn’t leave.
Thanks for listening/reading.
Nifty! Isabelle is such a beautiful name. 💜
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