Midnight Ocean

My nightmares throw me to the floor.

I am awash with fear and grief,

but can't recall what made me so.

The sheets are sails, ripped by winds.

My bed is tossed in wild waves.

I cannot read the shrouded stars.

Wet footsteps shimmer in the moon.

They traipse from windows to the door.

The room is locked. I can't escape.

My heart beats hard against my chest.

My breath, a pulse of panicked air.

My nightgown drenched in salty sweat.

Dawnlight emerges, faint but brave.

Nightmares fade, but they return

each night to drag me to my grave.