Lay Me Down Gently

by Onyeka Ndukwe

A shadow so sweet,  
or so the tale goes,  
yet you hear the hiss, 
as the darkness slithers into your bliss

The light was bright.  
It sent me reeling from its power,  
so I fled into the shadows,  
seeking comfort and silence.  

In there, darkness appeared as a friend, 
with encouraging words, 
accepting me as I am. 

Fatigue clings to me like a hungry infant 
Never satisfied.  
Drawing every single thing from me.  
Joy's been taken.  
Imagination now dull.  
They said life was beautiful.  
But why does it seem so gray? 

With my expectations placed higher than the sun. 
I move on the journey of life,
Causing one crash or another
With the speed of my steps and my own lazy comfort.
Even now, I still hear the sirens 
rushing to the scene of my broken dreams. 

Be on guard.  
You who take solace in the shadows. 
Be careful where you tread.  
Within it lurks unspeakable things.  
That wish to add to your tapestry of pain. 

Had I known, I would have run to the light. 
Instead, I took refuge in my weakness. 
I hid from that which would help me grow, 

How deadly the darkness is in its gentle caress,  
Its fangs hidden in the shadows. 
if it were more ferocious, I would have fought with all my might. 
Instead it creeps like an innocent fog,  
Blind, I run around on endless paths 
And then the fatigue hits me,  
its pointed teeth clinging to my neck. 

But now I fight with all my might
I know who is predator and prey.
May my soul remain vigilant
Lest darkness lay me down gently.

---

Onyeka Ndukwe, a Canadian artist currently residing in Ottawa, Ontario, is a lyrical poet whose work has graced the pages of esteemed publications. His first poem titled "Trust Half Spent" was featured in the Praised by December anthology (2021) published by Wingless Dreamer. Beyond his poetic endeavors, Onyeka is an avid history reader and occasionally indulges in anime, forging a creative path that blends artistry and intellectual curiosity.