The paddle is broken,
the punishment
is served in full.
The welts are faded
and pain still lingers
as it should.
The lone receiver
of empty compliments
taken in
and bought in full.
The lesson's hammered
the message has been
reinforced.
You said there would not be
any reason
to fear this world.
But you're the reason
you're the reason
I feel
broken,
and branded,
and burning with doubt.
The welts are faded
and the pain still lingers
as it should.
These things are dealt in increments.
Constant, and laced with detriment.
How dare you ever feign surprise.
When all those fingers point inside.
They're piercing you.
You said there would not be
any reason
to fear this world.
But you're the reason
you're the reason
I feel
broken,
and branded,
and burning with doubt.
