Catharsis
Trigger Warning: Depictions of self harm
The blade’s silver glint caught my eye
With each slice, a soft, muffled sigh
My fingers trace the crimson streams
Salted grief, down my cheeks, they gleam
The airborne ferrous makes me high
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Author's Notes:
This was written for Vocal's Sensational II Challenge. I've struggled with self-harm for thirteen years, but I've been clean for the past three.
Last week, something happened that devastated me and triggered the urge, but I didn't give in. For that, I owe my deepest thanks to Donna Fox, who was my rock during this difficult time and the inspiration behind this poem.
I also want to extend my gratitude to Tina D'Angelo and Angie the Archivist for their encouragement and for consistently checking in on me.
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Dharrsheena Raja Segarran
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Comments (138)
I'm happy your well. Keep writing!!
"Salted grief, down my cheeks, they gleam" ... I like that you used that line! It’s such a unique and sensory way to describe the feeling of sadness. thank you for sharing such an honest perspective, Dharrsheena! ❤️
OH, dear! Ypu are a very sensitive soul. Well done! 🙂
Your note made me want to cry. I'm so glad you resisted the urges. All the best!💜
Your choice of words turns pain into art. I too, used to struggle with this, I am 8 years clean. I love how raw and open you are. Your truth is heard.
"This was a powerful and well-written piece! Your words truly resonated with me, and I appreciate the honesty and depth you brought to this story. Keep sharing your voice — the world needs more stories like this."
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This is a beautifully honest piece. It must have taken you incredible strength to resist the urge and I find that inspiring!
Oh, this was beautiful! I love how you manage to capture such raw emotions in such short poems and stories 💖✨ I know you published this 7 months ago, but I hope you're healing from whatever you went through, and whoever or whatever hurt you gets what they deserve. Hugs!!! 💖💖💖
It’s not just the blade that cuts. The words do too.
A way to express disappointment — a bit intense, but beautifully written by your hands, which clearly have the ability to create beautiful works. Well done, and thank you for your response.
You have way with words. I could visualize. Ferrous, the smell of blood.
This made me feel some kind of way on the inside. Like someone just told me a deep, dark secret.
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This is an intense yet superbly written piece, Dharr. I understand your pain and I thank you much for your longstanding friendship.
The release of cries, whispers, and screams The past is still close, and was never a dream I'm glad to hear that You've been three years clean You love Yourself more, and don't treat Yourself so mean Like Blankets, good friends can help us mend ourselves together at our seams
Oh, Dharrsheena, my heart. I'm so sorry you were going through such a time. I'm so glad that you had an amazing support system there to help you through it. This poem is beautiful and so are you. ❤️
Words are limited, but the meaning is so intense. Very good poem.
Hi my friend. I know we have been goofing around on Facebook and it's been extremely enjoyable. But now I'm on vocal and I'm looking forward to reading your work. Wow Dharrsheena, you are so good. I'm really looking forward to reading more.
Oh my heart. Dharrsheena, this is a heartbreaking piece, and I'm so sorry you have struggled in this way. I just want to acknowledge the strength in you for being faced with something that caused this urge, and you RESISTED! That is power, growth, healing! You are amazing! So happy you have such awesome people in your life to carry you through the dark times and celebrate your wins! Sending hugs and love to you!
Powerful...
Hey lady -- you're most subscribed this week! Congratulations!
This poem is fabulously written but so heartbreaking. I'm so sorry you've gone through this but so happy to hear that you've been clean three years and resisted the urge recently. You are so important and deserve so much happiness Dharrsheena💛
WOW, this is incredible poem!
Wow, that's an interesting poem👏