A Woman Caged

Woman when will you learn? He beats you with his thick tongue and coarse words. The lashes on your back swollen and bloody, You no longer stand with your head towards the sky. Deflation. You're losing your shape. Chaotically torpedoing down toward Earth, Heart first. Soulless. You land at an awkward angle, Neck bent Body splattered onto the payment like stepped on gum. When will you learn? Companionship is not a dictatorship Ruling over you with penis and ego Demanding you "On your knees peasant." Claiming during climax that his love is sincere. Sincere are the wounds that have scared over Creating topographic maps across your skin, You can always follow your despair. Waking up melancholy, Floundering with your makeup in the mirror, This Mac mask is not enough. Your crevices always seep through, deep and dry. The sorrow from within rises through your eyes Simultaneously with the sun. You wish you could just melt into those rays, Just evaporate. Your daughters watch, Seeing their mother erode under the palms of their father, They don't want you to disappear They need you. A tangible you. They stretch their love over you Trying to shield the blows. Get out!!! Go!!! Your life is swinging in the wind, Barely hanging on to the last strand of hope wrapped around your finger, Woman,when will you learn? You are a mother A nurturer A goddess created by God, To be loved by a man of God. Let the devil be, Pull yourself out of the shadows, Run into the street Let the light warm your skin, Circulate your blood Revive your heart Mother, When will you learn, Freedom is free.