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The Manic Phases

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My mother did a lot to drive me to near insanity when I was young. And it made it very difficult for me to form normal relationships or to discuss things with other people. So in my 20s as I started to break out of that, I went on a journey of self discovery of how I actually felt and it started with poetry. This is one of the darker examples. This poem did not have a name until about 10 years ago.

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Sometimes I am a shadow Casting images upon a wall Having no effect on life A curiosity to all Sometimes I am a rock Moved by others pain At times like this I wonder at the thought That I am insane Sometimes I am an animal Drifting along at whim Doing things without a thought Of love of life or limb At times you think you know me At times you know you don’t Just remember I am all me Even when I won’t The manic phases – Susan Manley (C) 1985

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Writing Muse

Date: 12/28/2023 3:31:00 PM

Lovely rhymes that really capture the essence of what you are expressing. One of the most well written poems I've heard, keep up the great poetry Susan!

Sara Etgen-Baker

Date: 9/27/2023 4:36:00 AM

Captivating read, Susan. The words are powerful and genuine, describing a time when you were struggling to understand and overcome. I was engaged in your words. Nicely done, Sara

The Situation

Date: 9/26/2023 12:59:00 PM

1985 I was writing in a journal. This reminds me of; That time of the month. And you just want to be clear about it.