Posted in Poetry, Prose

Dragons in the Dark

Posted on by Penny Wilson Writes

dragon10

My dragons burrow deep and sleep the sleep of the evil.  They lie in wait.  They make sure I have my defenses down; that I am once again comfortable in my own skin.

My peripheral vision sees the shadow of these beasts occasionally as they melt into the background.  I try as I might to catch them before they are loose, but they are too clever.

These dragons will creep into my room and sit at the foot of my bed, watching as I slumber.  I have fooled them only once; feigning sleep as their foul breath assaults my senses.  The stench of their evil is almost overwhelming.

I have awakened on many moonless nights, sure I would see them.  My heart is in my throat as I sweep the room.  I must be sure to catch them if they linger.  All that lingers is the cold sweat that penetrates my gown and their stench.  Sleep will elude me this night, for the dragons have already started their assault.

With the dawn, I greet the day with trepidation.  How will the dragons manifest this time?  Will I find myself once again in the dark?  Will I be alone with my dragons, with nothing more than hope to see my way back into the light?

As I lock the front door and walk down the street, I can feel the dragons’ breath on my neck….

Amazing image found on Google Images.  Credit to the wonderful artist that created it.  

Copyright (C) 2014 Penny Wilson All Rights Reserved

*This piece was written about my struggle over the years with Depression. I’m in a good place these days, thank God.  But my mind has been on the ongoing struggle that many have with Mental Illness.  The Struggle IS Real.  For Help and articles that I’ve compiled and written on the subject, please visit my Mental Health Help Page HERE.

Please also see my recent post, asking for your help with much needed resources, HERE. Thank you for joining me on this journey. ❤

Author:

Penny Wilson is a freelance writer who writes in several genres. She has written articles for WOW Women on Writing. Her poetry has been published in online journals, such as Ariel Chart, Spill Words Press and the Poppy Road Review. Penny is a member of the Austin Poetry Society. Her poetry has been featured in the publication America's Emerging Poets 2018 & 2019 by Z Publishing and Poets Quarterly and Dual Coast Magazine published by Prolific Press. Penny is an advocate for Mental Health Awareness and has the page "Mental Health Help" on her blog. She writes about the struggles of mental illnesses and Depression. She is passionate about spreading awareness for Suicide Prevention and Domestic Abuse. She expresses her passion through her writings of poetry and life experiences. You can find more of her writings on her blog at https://pennywilsonwrites.com/ and follow her on Twitter @pennywilson123.

10 thoughts on “Dragons in the Dark”

  1. Pingback: Mental illness: Learn. Listen. Link. | Minnesota Prairie Roots

  2. Very powerful, Penny! Thank you for sharing your struggle, and I pray those who also fight dragons gain hope and strength from your words 💞

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  3. This is a beautiful, powerful and sensitive piece, Penny. I could so identify with every word of it. It’s strange how depression affects each person so differently, yet we often have things in common when trying to explain our thoughts and feelings to others. This is beautifully worded. I love the image at the top, too. Perfect for this story. I’m so glad you’re not in that place anymore, Penny. I feel encouraged by your progress. Xx 💖

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  4. Oh, dearest Penny, when I read this post, I knew exactly what you were writing about– depression. This story is nothing short of truthful, amazing, powerful, profound. This is such a vivid description of the darkness and power of depression. I wish every single person would read it. I hope you are seeking publication of this story. Please. Please. Please.

    I’m thankful you are in a good place now, away from that dragon.

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    1. Thank you so much, Audrey. I’ve always liked this piece, dark though it may be. I really have no idea where I might submit this for publication. I’m open to suggestions! Thank you, thank you, my Dear Friend for your always present encouragement and support. ❤ ❤

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      1. Penny, I will think on publication possibilities and ask around. The darkness of this piece is what makes it especially powerful. In a fictional way, you have captured the essence of depression’s darkness. I WANT this story widely-read. It opens the doors to understanding and compassion. I am always here for you, my friend.

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