I can't look at the face
Without seeing vitriol and disdain
Each laugh directed at imperfection
Each glance forebodes a certain doom
Look both ways before entering a room
Look both ways before engaging with strangers
I live my days in this negative space
Cuts both ways and I see one edge of the blade
I can't look at the page
Without seeing acid etched in paper
Each message filled with accusation
Disappointment or holier than you
Look both ways before making conversation
Look both ways before stating point of view
Look booth ways at your fellow human
The Gorgon's gaze or nothing much to say
It cuts both ways and I see one edge of the blade
Do not assume
Don't be dismayed
The hopeful monsters find that niche someday
I didn't know if you ever cared
I couldn't tell by the things you said
It took a while to process
The volume of actions
Look both ways before making acquaintance
Look both ways before going out on limbs
Look each way at each face of the prism
The end of days or just turning the page
Look both ways at that negative space
Do not assume
And I'll try not to do it too