Cabin Fever

I heard the wind upon the house all night
Railing as if in anger while I lay
In bed awaiting patiently for light.
I could not sleep, for what the wind would say;
I could not sleep, fearing the wind would do
My quaking walls some harm and lay me bare
To elements that might have run me through
Should I be sleeping and be unaware
That I could well be in some jeopardy.
I kept my eyes wide open in the dark
As if expecting a catastrophe.
I struck a match, and in that timid spark
The shadow of my hand across the floor
Reached, and seemed willing to unlock the door.


1989