She’s Mixed Media, by Julie Wells, Mixed Media, 2015.
Chickenhearted
by: Francesca Okoh
Look, I found him fast asleep
Behold cheer, giggle and jubilation echoes in the air
Prey alive like a dry tree at the sound of raindrop
Leaves dance in celebration, bursting and sprouting life
Suddenly at the sound of his footsteps
You seeped in their mind and overcame them
With dread, horror and fright
Their energy sapped and drained
Left disfigured and defeated
A thief you steal their peace
You creep in and devour them
Strengthening your control through lies
You built a stronghold – a giant cage and prison them
Today the prison’s gate is opened
The veil has been lifted
There are shouts of freedom echoing.