Shattered Fantasy

By Gabby Bloyd

Sometimes reality becomes too much.

I do what I can to try to lose touch.

I daydream and write, space out and read;

I hold onto fantasies that I live and breathe.

I look in the mirror, then close my eyes,

And when I look again my old figure dies. 

I see a deity surrounded by flora:

An all-powerful goddess loved like no other.

Looking again, there stands a knight:

Her sword gently gleams in pale moonlight.

Another blink reveals a bright, young witch:

Within her veins, untamable magic runs rich.

A bright flash of light brings forth a brave soldier:

Hair braided back, eyes glinting, squared shoulders. 

A fifth glance reveals a wide set of wings:

A fae stares at me; her knowing eyes blink.

A crown materializes atop regal hair:

A queen stands tall, her rulings just and fair.

And last, but not least, a young mother glows:

She holds her children and husband so close.

She smiles at me as the fever-dream clears;

My reflection returns, dark eyes leaking tears.

I wish I could be anyone but me.

My life is too slow, a bare reality.

Deep down I know I was not meant for this life

Where women lack rights and must be the perfect housewife. 

I wish for adventure, true love, and a fantasy,

But instead all I do is play my part in society. 

By Gabby Bloyd