Undaunted Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

Within this haunting,
I still feel you.
Cascading...
With the rippling birth,
That touches to unnerve,
Each emotion left that is felt!

Within this haunting,
Clinched teeth and fists...
Reminds me my peace of mind,
Has at this time been suspended.
I invited it to lick its lips and sit.
As I twist in degradation!

I dangle!
Attached to fear.
I can't remove it from my grasp!
I am too familiar with it near.
I hear the laughter.
As it entwines and chases me.
Pulling until it appears...
In my sight.
To whisper its presence,
In my ears!

And if I begin to slip...
My grip and hold tightens.
Frighened,
I can not show this.
An escaped I seek...
Dims my chances that look bleak.

Too well it knows I know it!
It draws me closer.
And that is clear...
Within this haunting!
I expose no fear.
Yet still it is here...
Undaunted!