Something dark couches,

Lurking in shadows.

Midnight eyes

Drink my pain.

In corners dank and musty

It wallows in filth,

Stirring misery

While bitterness curdles.

Shapeless, hulking,

It hides from the light.

A candle bright with joy 

That sheds hope and 

Forces fear into 

Holes and niches

Til wavering wind 

And faltering flame

Rendezvous,

Watching for hope to gutter,

Fail, clearing path 

For despair encroaching.