Look Both Ways

I can't look at the face Without seeing vitriol and disdain Each laugh directed at imperfection Each glance forebodes a certain doom Look both ways before entering a room Look both ways before engaging with strangers I live my days in this negative space Cuts both ways and I see one edge of the blade I can't look at the page Without seeing acid etched in paper Each message filled with accusation Disappointment or holier than you Look both ways before making conversation Look both ways before stating point of view Look booth ways at your fellow human The Gorgon's gaze or nothing much to say It cuts both ways and I see one edge of the blade Do not assume Don't be dismayed The hopeful monsters find that niche someday I didn't know if you ever cared I couldn't tell by the things you said It took a while to process The volume of actions Look both ways before making acquaintance Look both ways before going out on limbs Look each way at each face of the prism The end of days or just turning the page Look both ways at that negative space Do not assume And I'll try not to do it too