When Did I Grow a Shell
When did I grow a Shell
That closed off all the world
That allowed seclusion, quiet, solitary, and peace
What a blessing, contentment
When did I grow a Shell
That created alternate realities
People characterized in the absence of conversation
What a curse in disguise
When did I grow a Shell
That held in all my worry,
Reminded me of the nuisance my troubles inspire
What a prison I carried
When did I grow a Shell
Against those who might be friendly,
Isolated from scorn, judging and limiting kindness
What a deformed sanctuary
When did I grow a Shell
I can see it so clearly now
Containing peace in solitude
But excluding external forces
Biting down as the world crowds around
Seeing my trap longafter I've fallen
Reaching but hitting this hard Shell
Or perhaps the Shell is not like this,
Perhaps I am simply a Hermit Crab.