flickers

a creative supplement by nafia nowroz

---

The overhead lamp flickers in morse code,
whispering its secrets of being a Grim Reaper. 
It breathes through the silence
in the empty hallways. 
It slowly creeps up my spine, reminding me
that I have to leave this place soon enough.
Its gangrenous hand caresses my flesh, 
reminding me that I can’t stay stuck any longer. 
The overhead lamp flickers in morse code, 
talking me out of my misery. 
It’s flickering luminescence trails down 
my face like river water flowing. 
It waits until I have the energy to pick
myself up from my couch.
It converses with me long enough 
to keep me company.
The tales of death remind me that it’s only a matter of time
before I join them.
Only a matter of time before this static
in my head disappears. 
The overhead lamp flickers in morse code
and urges me to pack my belongings to accompany him.
It crackles at times, instructing me 
to leave my voicemails and letters before I leave.
Its light blinds my eyes, cooling 
this scalding discomfort in my mind.
It’s scythe wraps around my throat
like a necklace, before the light in my eyes leave.
I bid it farewell and thank it for its company.
Finally, the overhead lamp goes out. 
Taking me with it.  

---

This was written as a creative supplement for July’s Florilegium installment, The Catcher in the Rye. Enjoyed reading this poem? You can submit your own as well — click the link HERE to register as a volunteer and earn service hours from your contributions to The Petal Press!