Denial Poem by Gregory Huyette

Denial is a river I know so well
For it flows deep in my veins.
It’s my partner when lonely,
Defender in conflict and doctor for my pains.

This river of tears cleanses my ears
So I can hear what I need.
Its current sucks under those who wonder
And all who’ve disagreed.

With denial I can defend myself
Against each who seems a fool.
For theirs is the problem, the error,
The fault and I’m the one to rule.

Waves of denial splash at my face,
Forcing a flaccid smile.
Torrents of liquid numb my space.
Then nothing hurts for a while.

Denial is my river. It serves me well.
It’s the only refuge I’ve found.
Though my greatest fear while swimming here
Is that who I was has drowned.