Captivity by Stephen Bunch

Captivity

Escape is usually an option,
even destined

in the movies, but not
in this destination,

where the plot fails
to unwind, or thickens like

quicksand.
Even the clock’s hands are bound,

each minute contained,
then strangled, the schedule

of departures unchanged.
The cuffs tighten if you struggle.

by Stephen Bunch

Editor’s Note: The dread in this poem heightens with each line, until the last, where all hope is lost.