Albatross

I saw you weak
And hated you
The way you clung to me
Your need so claustrophobic
I could barely breathe

And yet I felt responsible
Not able to break free
Each time that I would take a step
Your grasp dug into me

As though I held the key to you
As though you lived through me

You feared that I’d abandon you
You said you’d take your life

I’ve become indentured
To care for you just like
You were my child and helpless
Not partners in a life

My feelings you see undisguised
When you look at me
Yet you persist in clamping on
Adhering steadfastly

So let me go to sleep at night
And dream you went away
Allow me just a slice of peace
Denied me in the day.