Lies

"Fear's silencing grip holds tight As truth trembles on my lips, a precarious light Apprehension gnaws, a relentless plight Lest judgment's sting pierce, a wound that won't ignite The cacophony of others' words, a haunting refrain Echoes of doubt, a litany of pain I tremble at the sound of my own voice's strain As authenticity wrestles, a truth to reclaim Regret's bitter taste, a sorrow to abide If only I could rewrite, the narrative to guide Correct the falsehoods, the masks I hide And reveal the true self, in all its fragile pride Oh, the weight of unspoken words The burden of concealment, a heart forever blurred But still I yearn to break free from this fear's dark shroud And speak my truth, though it may be fraught"