despite

of this instinct
to be
to continue
living
despite dying
despite the drudgery
despite deeds done
with such venom
and treachery
that the forever sleep
seems but a careless
slap in the face
against hope

care for the lost hope
slap away the invasive hands
careless and quick
until sleep bends

of this is instinct
to move forward
to live the luscious
despite dying
despite deeds done undone