Notes on My Other Self

I am the Thor of waves,
pounding at your shore,
stealing you away,
grain and loam.

I am the raven of misery
-- no, a flock of ravens --
pecking the straw
from your brainless body.

I am the monster
behind your headboard,
the ubiquitous shroud
of guilt and alone.

I am the one that screams
"You're ugly!"
from the mirror,
throwing shame
as you sob your way home.