Death clings to a body
after a suicide attempt
As cold lingers
In fall's new air.
It digs down to the core
and nibbles at the soul,
Marking its territory
for future use.

An encounter with death
freezes all emotions
Hiding away any doubts
of the perception of life.
A mask goes overhead
covering any weakness.
Just enough to fool the world
Just enough to fool yourself.

11/12/97