Hold Your Own

I am my own woman

Though love breaks my bones

And curdles the breath in my bosom

I hold my ground.

I am my own woman

Though my words lose their edge

And my walls crumble to kiss the earth

I keep my guard.

I am my own woman

Though you send me roses

And place your pulsing heart in my hands

My scalpel stands ready.

I am my own woman

When sleep renders you senseless

My hands slice you open

And return the bloody thing to its rightful place

Between your lungs.

I am my own woman

Two hearts
Would rupture my veins.

 JULIE CHEN