The Sum

If I ask that you move out of my reach
Linger not to close, the flames burn hot within my grasp
And the touch of soft skin matters not

Nor do the gentle words sooth the fires that reach up
Longing to sear the breath and quench the thirst
To taste the coppery tang in the flow of life

I do not control the inner rage that comes unbidden
Nor temper that urge to be unbound
As pure emotion sweeps without check from the void

I am that which comes
As tears, reason, and pleading end
As humanity, compassion, and love are swept aside

I am what all fear
Man