Poem: “Trapped”

Trapped

My vision obstructed by the bars on my window as I watch the sun’s incline
Regrets escape for only a moment, moving along hastily as time.
Trying to drift away from this place of hate with gates laced with knives,
but I’m trapped within a cage that holds me close while manipulating my mind.
The stone walls whispers attempting to soothe my hunger while caressing my pain.
Freedom, I strive for though some days I feel as if my struggle is in vain.
My cries for help are smothered by screams of frustration, day to day stress I live through
Yesterday was like today and tomorrow is the same I’m trapped in a realm of déjà vu
Why’s are no longer summoned while my pillow fondles my neck and head
Nights no longer filled with sweet dreams only nightmares pictures of the dead.
Tucked neatly in my coffin longing for slumber, just wanting to rest in peace
Instead I’m trapped in prison from being caged in by the streets.

6 Comments

  1. Alison on October 16, 2010 at 12:11 AM

    This is beautiful, you place unexpected ideas together, like “walls laced with knives.” You convey the pain of repetition and nothingness very well…reminds me of the saying “its so soft it might cut you.”

  2. kassidilenae on November 17, 2020 at 11:28 AM

    Thank you for your vulnerability in this poem. I can hear the pain and longing in the images you create. I am inspired by your determination to keep going. I challenge you to look for the good in your surroundings and in yourself. You are heard, and you are worthy of a full and happy life. Keep writing!

  3. Elana on October 25, 2022 at 3:37 PM

    You have an incredible vocabulary and utilize it well. This poem really painted a picture so vivid, you could almost touch it. Keep writing, expressing yourself through poetry, and expanding your vocabulary!

  4. liv on November 16, 2022 at 3:59 PM

    You used great descriptive language, and I really enjoyed when you said “trying to drift away from this place of hate with gates laced with knives, but I’m trapped within a cage that holds me close while manipulating my mind.” your summarization of what prison has been like for you has been very interesting to read. Every day is starting to feel the same like you are getting deja vu, and you strive for freedom but it seems so far out of reach. I am sorry for what you have been feeling, keep fighting. Great poem.

  5. Corrina on March 2, 2023 at 7:19 PM

    Your poem “Trapped” is written very well. I’m glad that in all the darkness of life you are able to find an escape in poetry. Keep working hard and stay determined to achieve your goals, no matter how big. You got this! Great work!

  6. Oshane on March 20, 2023 at 11:48 PM

    A moving poem. I like the strong narrative and the recurring theme of entrapment and desire for freedom. The simile “gates laced with knives” is a powerful image that conveys not only the dangerous nature of being imprisoned but also hints at the emotional pain and suffering associated with being trapped.

    Continue to express yourself through writing.

Leave a Comment





This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

The poets featured here are currently incarcerated, and many of them are in federal prisons far from home. Your feedback is a valuable source of motivation and connection to the outside community. Post your comments, feedback, and encouragement in the space below the poem. Messages will be passed on directly to the author. Comments may not appear immediately on the site, as our team processes them to mail to the poets.