Agoraphobia

Born into the frustration of this life
A fire fueled by abuse and negativity
Feelings of anger flood over me 
I can’t breathe 
Panting and gasping because this fear consumes me
All that remains within me is dark
I am lost and afraid
There is no light to lead me to safety
This darkness is constantly with me
Chains of depression bind me
I am in need yet I do not ask
Life evolves around me and I remain the same
Crying from within the hole that once was my soul 
Though many surround me, I remain alone
I see the world outside and long to fit in; to participate
I reach for the door but it grows farther away
I search and yet somehow there is no other opening
Opportunities pass by like rivers
I suffer in constant sorrow
My heart beats rapidly out of control
My breath is jagged 
My muscles ache and spasm
My chest is constricted 
Darkness overcomes me and the world is silent
I faint to the floor
Another day gone 
Locked inside the walls of captivity I remain
People pass, birds fly free, children laugh and play
Winter, spring, summer, and fall
Every second of every minute
Every minute of every hour
Every hour of every day
Every week of every month
Every month of every year
Every year for all of my life
I exist but do not live
I am a prisoner and a slave to fear



*For Sami's Small Cage, Big Bird contest
Copyright © | Year Posted 2009

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Buckling Avatar
November 24, 2009 at 9:06 AM
So evoking. As I read through I could feel myself starting to panic and then the countdown at the end, like one more brick of lead after another. Great capture of emotion.
Mason Avatar
October 19, 2009 at 5:58 PM
Awesome writing about a very real disorder for many folks ... thanks for this one, Lena. Best of luck in the contest ... this is a sure winner!
Golden Avatar
October 13, 2009 at 6:27 PM
How heartbreaking this conditon must be for those who suffer. Is this based on personal experience? I pray it isn't so. Either way, a gripping, effective piece, Lita! Hugs, Donna p.s. This should do well in the contest!
Goff Avatar
October 1, 2009 at 11:33 PM
beautiful art! Lita!.... your poems are like water to the thirsty... jim
Moreno Avatar
September 29, 2009 at 9:28 PM
A phobia I am too familiar with, best of luck in the contest...Raul
Devonshire Avatar
September 29, 2009 at 10:11 AM
Whew! An awesome entry for Sami's contest. Surely agoraphobics experience the feelings you describe so well and feel like captives in a "small cage." Great writing, Lolita! Love, Carolyn
Kendrick Avatar
September 29, 2009 at 6:30 AM
Sad state to be in no matter what state you are in. I hope that this is just a topic and not your life's condition. Keep writing. Sara
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace