Holding My Breath Poem by Njabulo Mkandla

Everything that I see falls into place
Like the sway of a tree rests against the howlings
Resurrect this beautiful escape
But everything in my hands only fades away

Diamonds and boys love to dance
Slow melodic symphonies create an atmospheric romance
We're worried that it won't last so we take our time
But the microwave oven has let us down

Super cars, super-rated fantasies drive me insane
But I love the feeling of getting clean from dirty air rushing over my face
And the memories never last, I've gotta live them again
Take a picture of me? It's not the same

I'm holding my breath hoping that these things would pass
Sacrifice myself, hope for the best
But what will come to pass

I'm holding my breath
I'm waiting to rise to the surface
But I'm sinking further and further