Sinner Poem by Robin Bennett

I've never been lost in a naked forest-
where limbs intertwine on the ground;
wrapping each other as if trapped in a cocoon.
Sharp jagged edges sound the howls of the coyotes-
teeth just waiting to rip my heart out;
Twisted patterns keep me prisoner-
wailing tears that no one hears,
knee deep in brush and rotted animals.

Lost now this morning, naked in your bed-
now both pretending to sleep.
Covered in shame, rotting in misdeeds;
I shower, the razor drags across my legs-
as if the coyote ripped them apart, blood runs pink.

You hear my screams, and ignore them-
the pain just builds upon itself.

I've scrubbed my body raw trying to wash my sins
they cling to me like humidity on leaves
we manage to mutter a good bye; I leave soaking wet-
The city stares at me, judge and jury for my sins...