Poets logo
Content warning
This story may contain sensitive material or discuss topics that some readers may find distressing. Reader discretion is advised. The views and opinions expressed in this story are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Vocal.

The Fall

A moment suspended, between here and there

By Dana CrandellPublished about a year ago • Updated about a year ago • 1 min read
The Fall
Photo by Klara Kulikova on Unsplash

The rush of air is sudden.

Icy panic grips my pounding heart

As the din of the vile crowd becomes an uproar.

“Witch!” they cry, “Burn in hell where ye belong!”

* The end will be welcome.

The scars still burn, yea, as do my lungs,

Behind ribs cracked from the force of their blows.

Unwelcome artifacts of the “trials”.

* The fall seems too long.

The hangman was too anxious.

Did he fail to secure the rope in his haste?

Prithee, God, if thou hearest, be merciful!

Let the horror end.

Beauty was my only sin.

I welcomed not their advances.

'Twas envy brought the accusation

And bloodlust, the sentencing.

* At last, the tug and the snap.

A flash of white-hot pain

Gives way to cool, peaceful darkness.

Fear is purged, replaced by overwhelming love

And a great sense of belonging,

A warm, distant light beckons.

***

My mind took off without me on the theme of this challenge, and here's where we ended up. Thanks for reading!

Free Versesad poetry

About the Creator

Dana Crandell

Dad, Stepdad, Grandpa, Husband, lover of Nature and dogs.

Poet, Writer, Editor, Photographer, Artist

My poetry collection: Life, Love & Ludicrosity

Facebook

The Upland Soul

Enjoyed the story? Support the Creator.

Subscribe for free to receive all their stories in your feed. You could also become a paid subscriber, letting them know you appreciate their work.

Subscribe For Free

Reader insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment
    Written by Dana Crandell