It’s when the rattle of life

Like a car dragging a chain

Strikes combustible thoughts 

In my brain 

That they ignite this fire 

Charring me deep into my soul

And I know I’m a man on a wire

About to lose control

Sometimes it’s seconds, minutes

Other times a day, maybe a week

But the feeling lets me know

That thing inside me will use its teeth

To chew through its restraints

And do whatever it wants

Wearing my face

Yet, I’m the one 

Who wakes up with a shaking hand

Seeing the reflection of the alcoholic 

Who led me to where I stand 

Taunting me with a secret I leave off the page:

“I know you still like it 

When I’m out of my cage.”