The monster I know.

I protect myself from the monster
in as many ways as I know how,
shielding my body against the dark,
humming to break through the silence.

But when I take time to rest,
the monster descends.

I choke back a sob and swallow it whole.
It doesn't feel like anything
as it glides down my throat.
I question my sanity.
I almost relax

until

I feel the jolt.
My limbs spasm.
I start to scream and scream
but realize my mouth is closed.
There is nowhere to run.
My legs are bound.

It lasts only moments
until the light returns,
my body and mind in control again.

The monster is memory -
the memory is you.