danger

[Cadaverous Pallor]

MC at the Open Mic Club: Anyone else got a ponder to spare? A delusion to share? A splinter in their mind that needs some care?

One table's occupants seem to urge a chick to speak up. Her eyes move over them silently, one by one, expression revealing nothing. They fall silent and sit back.

She stands, steps to the small stage. The MC sees her face and hands her the mic without introduction.

She speaks.

We're obsessed with danger.

could get caught
taking a risk
what if...

why the thrill?
what is it with tiptoing an edge?
even those most measured controlled controlling
express need for risk in some fashion
just pretending is enough for some
just not calling ahead is a reason to gasp

there's danger in letting go
in losing grip via chemicals
excitement in tipsy reactions
joy in relinquishing rein

danger in breaking social rules
sick of same old status
let's try something new
pull someone close and let them in
push someone away and move on
turning slightly to let the light angle
revealing previously unseen colors
changed focus may ruin past endeavors
but could just be really fun

Danger in physical limits
hope the seat belt holds
again, it's all perception
still, I scream on memorized tracks

Is there excitement without risk?
Would you really lust after her if it weren't taboo?
He'll untie you at any time
and the seat belt always works
Can you thrill while knowing the tricks?
Is there risk if it's never discovered?
Or is it more fooling to heighten the senses?

I'm no gambler, no odds-maker
when there's risk, I fold
I find no thrill in fooling God nor man nor myself
yet I'm stuck, pondering Kerouac's kicks
as I follow the painted line on the ground