Notch

Tighten that noose a little bit tighter,
It’s still too loose.
Notch it in further with throwaway remarks,
And find sturdy branch protruding from thick, strong bark.
Begin to swing.
You’ll find, as you claw, and gasp for air,
There’s no room for those words that always threatened to surface there.
They were never meant to escape.
And this is the surest way to make sure they never do.
After, they’ll say you were seeking attention.
It isn’t true. But you’re silenced now.
They win.