I am

I am

the dragonfly.

My wings are

crushed velvet

that could not be destroyed.

A powerful flight

that you could not stay.

I went

where I wanted.

So,

you put me in a jar.

You think I forget?

Seeing myself dusty

and airless,

resting among the clutter

on your work table.

You could look,

but no one

could touch.

I remember.

The beautiful colors

slowly drained

away

the life steeped out like a used teabag.

My eyes

became

glazed-over and useless.

But I am the dragonfly.

My soul flew out.

My shell

left behind

in that

decrepit jar

to wither,

to remain,

your empty muse.

And my heart,

my heart is now free.