On Repeat

Relentless aching terrorizes me,

persistent, chronic, unabated pain;

apprentice sedulous to lying thieves,

addictive tonics foaming at the bay.

Inside my chest, a fist is clenching tight,

decided guest inside my empty cage;

side-effect tryst with sweet cortisol highs

beside my nested bird singing assuage.

For some, their comfort found in healing things,

but I prefer to revel in my pain

because it's you I find in memories,

and here with you is where I will remain.

I'm in the groove, I'm getting comfortable;

the needle back around the turntable.