Heart Attacks

Heart Attacks

I select the sharpest of my knives,

and even then I have to use some force

to cut through those outer leaves.

Their green is dark

and it is only when I cut through

to the heart

that I get to those of a lighter shade.

At least there is no sign of blood,

but your handiwork didn’t bring

any sign of crimson either.

I can’t help but think

how much easier it was for you

to cut through my heart

and chop it apart.

You did not even need a knife.

My defences were down

and as though you sensed it -

my vulnerability -

you made a couple of sweeps

with your rapier tongue

and destroyed the very heart of me.

Stupid, I know,

but I can’t help but empathize

with this cabbage on my chopping board,