I run and run.
As hard as I can.
To escape from the punishment.
Oh, the things I’ve done.

© 2023 Jeff E. Brown. All rights reserved.
I run and run.
As hard as I can.
To escape from the punishment.
Oh, the things I’ve done.
© 2023 Jeff E. Brown. All rights reserved.
“I didn’t want to be out here. Today of all days, but here I am again. This corner. This intersection. Living these humiliating moments on repeat. And you just take a picture. Cold-hearted asshole.”
© 2023 Jeff E. Brown. All rights reserved.
I didn’t need to advertise who or what I was. One glance and you knew: combustible. Somebody to run away from.
But I wasn’t always like this. No one ever is. You grow into it, slowly and without meaning to, but then there is a day when you no longer see the person you hoped to be.
© 2023 Jeff E. Brown. All rights reserved.
My brother had a plan. From the time we were small; always a plan. At seventeen, the bullet-train of ambition was off and he never looked down, much less back. I’m sure he’s rich, just like I know he’s a boss. Wherever he is today, he is the one in charge. But you can’t rise above your fate.
© 2023 Jeff E. Brown. All rights reserved.
I scrolled as I waited, because why shouldn’t I? You said you had to talk to me. In person. So I waited at the bus stop by the tree, like I always do. I’ll be here when you arrive. Then we can talk.
© 2023 Jeff E. Brown. All rights reserved.
“We get along okay and you’re pleasant enough. I like your stories about your ex, but let’s not pretend this is something it isn’t.”
© 2023 Jeff E. Brown. All rights reserved.
Bruises that don’t heal.
Feelings you can’t describe.
The rumble of strife
That’s been with you always.
Your partner in life.
© 2023 Jeff E. Brown. All rights reserved.