I hear him break in
Carelessly dismantling the window frame
Fearless, knowing I am aware
Of his presence
Content with my terror
This was my time
He’d been watching the house for a while
Assured of my defencelessness
And my inability to persuade the authorities
That the threat is real
Their indifference was as powerful as
The promise of malevolence emanating from his eyes
A look I recall from sixty-five years ago
When I knew whom the enemy was
I had triumphed over that foe
Despite my dread
For I was young and strong
Now I am only old and afraid
""I fought a war for you"" I cry
As his fist crushes my cheekbone
""Did you"" he mocks
