Quiet Fright

stage fright
or staged fright
someone who was pissed off at me
said I just play it, the shyness

well it is not an intentional act
though I am the first to admit
the ease with which denial
shapes my predictable behavior

I think it really is still
just intimidation
and bashfulness
on my part

I don't mean to deceive
my mind goes blank easily
when faced with that which I desire
and with those whom I find
to possess and show beauty

smiles make me stutter

Copyright © 1986-2001 Thom Reid