Maybe

By Cliff Lake

 

Maybe

 

The lingering inkling,

A squatting incorporeal toad of thought:

This doubt.

A question.

A suggestion.

A whisper.

“maybe”

The merest hint,

Is that enough for confirmation?

Or does that signify necessary caution?

Is it the beginning?

Is it custody?

Is it control.

“maybe”

What certitude can be had?

This apprehension in the subconscious,

A guardian,

A sentinel,

A watchdog…

Or a symptom.

How to know which?

If one loses it all,

Would you know?

Always “maybe”

A near precipice, yes,

But have you already fallen?

What altscape do you now inhabit?

Would they tell you?

Would you want to know?

Have you asked?

Will you?

A daily suspense.

“maybe”

Maybe I shouldn’t have brought it up.

Maybe you’re okay.

Maybe it’s best that you don’t know.

Maybe it’s best to trust those around you.

Maybe it’s already too late.

Maybe it’s nothing to worry about.

Maybe.

 

Maybe this one was about me.

 

Maybe.

 

Cliff Lake 11/19/2024

Copyright © Clifford Lake 2024

Location: Wichita, KS, USA

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