Pain

by Don Case on Thursday, July 14, 2011


Most described
and vilified
so many different
ways to feel
each one identified
as real

The slice that stings
those paper things
quick sudden impact
thudding throb
slow constant rill
feel it still

Fiery nerve ends
burn in air
the ones that pulse
and still are bare
a crushing blow
the hammer knows

Witch is bearable
quick and neat
or controlled
by drugs
feel only
heart beat

Escape not there
sensation here
the flesh responds
and nerves repair
a mark remains
to tell the tale

Maps of life
experience brings
disconnect feeling
where scars begin
numb but sensitive
in a different way

Large and small
long and short
some forever
some a memory
fleeting but
touched remembered