Down down down so
quick I fall
Through the open window
pain.
Light a candle in
my eyes to shine
on my darkened soul.
Put out the fire with tears
from my mother’s fears.
Tie a noose around the side
of my talking neck
so no sounds can be seen.
Bite my tongue until my teeth
bleed with sorrow.
Peck peck peck goes
the Raven.
-HATTIE FRITZ