Indifference

By E.B. Keane-Farrell

I hold indifference towards the shadows that domineer my world,

Slipping past me gently,

Seen, and noticed,

But never felt, never loved.

If too much attention is given to them

They think they can form a solid,

They think they can interact.

But, lo! I cannot bring myself

To feel anything towards them.

I cannot bring myself to look them in the eye;

For, if I do,

It brings a name to them, a face, a voice,

And makes them become something I must care for.

Ah, but see, this small monologue

Makes me seem selfish and unkind.

But no, no, that is not me, I assure you;

That is not what I intended.

I say these words to tell you

Why I act the way I am –

Covert, hidden, coy, hoping not to see –

Because if I see you

Then I will want to protect you,

And my weaknesses shall be exposed.