I walk down the street, on my way home.

Though it’s late at night, I’m not alone.

I feel their eyes watching as their shadows arrive.

With every step taken, I doubt I’ll survive.

They all look different but somehow the same.

Sometimes they whisper and call out my name.

I walk faster now, unsure what to do.

They’re always around me. In daylight too.

Tall and dark and faces never shown.

I feel the fright, right down to bone.

Their fingers stretch out impossibly long.

This doesn't seem right. This feels all wrong.

The street light flickers. I hasten my stride.

“Stay calm.” I whisper. “You’ll make it inside.”

I look back once and frozen they stare.

My face starts to sting in the frigid air.

Their whispers get louder. A hiss, a demand.

I can see now, they had this all planned.

People walk past, just up ahead

None of them stop but none of them fled.

They just look on as each one goes by.

Why don’t they help? Why don’t they try?

I break into a sprint; the door is so close.

Getting inside is what I want most.

The light grows blinding. I squint my eyes.

A giant stands there, a man in disguise.

I scream for his help, but he hands me a cup.

I stare inside it. My heartbeat speeds up.

Can’t you see?! That they want me dead!

He laughs “Take the pills. It's all in your head.”

I blink, and the walls are no longer the night.

But padded and sterile, washed-out in white.

Now my jacket is straight and holds me so tight.

But in right now, in this moment. That is alright.