I Am The One

I don't tend to write much poetry, at least not about myself, because I find that it's too emotionally immediate. It's much easier to write prose, where you can mix things up a little bit more, and get a more comfortable level of distance from the subject and themes of the piece that you're writing. I also find reading my own poetry incredibly nerve-wracking and uncomfortable, for the same reasons.

 This poem is an exception to that rule. I've realised over the last year or so that I spend a lot of time clearing up other people's messes (both literal and emotional), sometimes at the expense of my own happiness and wellbeing. This poem came out of the frustration and anger that I began to feel about that situation and, because I don't go in much for confrontation normally, seemed like at least a semi-healthy way of expressing how I felt at the time.

I Am The One

I am the one who caught the spider,

I am the one who tamed the tiger.

I am the one who washed the dishes,

I am the one who filled your wishes.

What would you do without me?

 

I am the one who walked the dog,

I am the one who kissed the frog.

I am the one who let you bitch,

I am the one who killed the witch.

You only had to thank me.

 

I am the one who dressed your knee,

I am the one who drained the sea.

I am the one who kept things level,

I am the one who fought your devil.

Now live your life without me.