Captive Poem by Mary Champion

Today, I am full of tomorrows -
my yesterdays forgotten -
or non-existent.

I am new-born-
unlettered-
inexperienced-
and yet I know how to hold your attention…

Mother!

You did not choose me,
nor I you,
yet we are bound by this fleshy bond
they are about to sever.

But you will not be free -
my cry transfixes you -
brings you hurrying, anxious, to my side,
wondering how you can still
the agonising wail
as it rips you apart.