Inside

Inside is safe and predictable
I can hide, protected from others
Who might wish me harm and evil
Or worse, nothing at all
My world is neatly defined
Aligned in perfect squares
That prohibit or ensnare
For those caught unaware

Inside I am master and defender
Against outside predators
Who might steal my heart
And break it into a thousand pieces
Alone is my ally,
Constant friend and companion
I’m never abandoned
Or deceived by charlatans

Inside I’m at peace with the world
Full of hate and judgment
Against all who dare trust
To love and be hurt
By deceitful promises and hope
I’ve been there before
And I vow no more
For I am at war

Inside I fantasize and pretend
To never be deceived or destroyed
By forces unknown
Or love’s vagaries
Indestructible I remain
Till death comes my way
And my body decays
Until that glorious day

Inside I cradle my soul
Protecting my psyche and emotions
From those who might destroy
Whatever freedom I have left
I choose to be left intact
A paramount of strength and fortitude
Against life’s vicissitudes
I choose solitude

Inside is outside reversed
Where I’ve lived too long
Protected from no one
Who might wish me harm
I now realize the irony
Of self-righteous retreat
For all who dare cheat
And in the end, suffer defeat