avatarNicole Sponsel

Summary

The poem "Claustrophobia, Be Damned!" vividly portrays the struggle with claustrophobia and the yearning for liberation and human connection.

Abstract

The poem "Claustrophobia, Be Damned!" delves into the psychological battle with claustrophobia, where the mind is trapped in a space too small to contain it. The author describes the sensory experiences of being by the ocean, juxtaposing the vastness of the sky and sea with the internal confinement one feels. Despite the paralyzing grip of fear and the walls that seem to rise around the narrator, there is a persistent desire to break free, to be heard, and to connect with others. The poem suggests that overcoming these mental barriers leads to a shared journey of growth, filled with stories and smiles. The author invites readers to explore another work, "Sporadic Jungle," which offers hope amidst emotional isolation, and encourages joining Medium for full access to such profound narratives.

Opinions

  • The author conveys a sense of entrapment that is mental rather than physical, emphasizing the power of the mind to create confinement.
  • There is a strong belief in the transformative power of human connection, suggesting it can open up one's world and alleviate the feeling of being trapped.
  • The poem reflects on the internal struggle between fear and the desire to overcome it, portraying this as a universal human experience.
  • The author uses vivid imagery, such as the "cool surf" and "crackling glass of swift crashing waves," to evoke the sensory experience of the environment and contrast it with the internal turmoil.
  • The poem implies that sharing one's struggles can lead to a collective healing process, as indicated by the anticipation of "trails await" and "intimate stories."
  • The invitation to read another poem and join Medium suggests the author's opinion that these stories have value and can provide solace or inspiration to readers.

POEM OF DETERMINATION

Claustrophobia, Be Damned!

When your mind holds you hostage, inside its tiniest crevices of space, screaming to find your way out is expected and needed.

Photo by Ashley Batz on Unsplash

Sprays of cool surf wisp against my cheek

The crackling glass of swift crashing waves cry out for an audience near enough to hypnotize

No restraints or cemented feet

I do see the empty sky above with endless dry land patiently waiting for my run to meet its call

Then paralyzing fear responds, what if no one’s out there

I can’t move even though I’m reaching

With closed eyes, I squint to peek through holes exposed as walls rise and grounded mazes keep me trapped

My tormented screech crumbles as anguish falls

My restless body searches for answers and protection

It desperately shudders with an unbearable need for others

Wanting connection, touch, electricity to draw from private sources

To hear my scream, pick me up, read my eyes, and open my sky

Trails await, not closed and narrowed but marching feet in step with me

Ringing a melodic tune of intimate stories and limitless smiles as we climb higher

Thank you for reading. Please enjoy another poem of mine examining mental struggles.

Poetry
Relationships
Mental Health
Claustrophobia
Self Care
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