My Little Friend

 My Little Friend

poem by e.e.cane

Jan. 29, 2021

Why, it's my little friend

doubtless, startled by my courage

Such things have been known to happen

Your suspicious eyes tell me I have a ways to go

before acceptance

But I would think congratulations in order for my

exceptional betrayal of shyness

After all, you said the awkward goodbye amid stomach aches

and wretched nervousness

I should think you would welcome the release

I have to say goodbye

Though I relish your strength to get this far without me,

I also detest you

I shall not return

This disease of excessive self-consciousness is

a betrayal of the rest of you,

and there’s too much the world needs to see of that part

for you to seduce me any longer