Walking Into My Own Trap

I stalk a pale facade shriveling into the past

heels scuffing on a fleeting landscape

as the skies summon their subtle retreat

invisibly retiring along their familiar paths

while the day recedes and pledges fealty

to that which comes to encapsulate it

discarding old battle grounds with timed haste

being swept up like the remnants of

what was and what may have been

ancient memories long disposed of

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The invading twilight begins its mutiny

confronting reality like an intruder

isolating me in my private echo chamber

increasing my solitude and assessing my being

questioning my intentions and judging my worth

forcing my mind and thoughts to surrender

unconditionally to self-judgment

on a trial of my own creation

my own judge, jury, executioner

wondering…remembering…condemning

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I knowingly sacrifice my autonomy

to a scathing mind dripping in red pen

forcing me to see everything without looking

as shreds of past ruins swarm and assault me

an endless array of oppressive reflections

tragic mistakes and mockery thrown at me

like accusations of criminal intent

prophetic in their appearance

accurate in their discernment

murderous in their commission