The Torturous Path
by Gary Beck

Launched into the world
without choice,
a child doomed to visions,
unaware of continuations.
How fast playtime passed
gnawed at by desires,
no place for refuge,
hurled into life’s commotion.
Not warned of wanting
to be like others
who obey and follow instructions.
Not warned of loneliness
in seeking new-found creation.
The longings for achievement
blighted by dismal reflection,
the first gains unnoticed,
yet hungering splendors.
Then the shimmering illusion,
a woman imagined, unveiled,
a dazzling invitation.
to join life’s performance.

Gary Beck has spent most of his adult life as a theater director. His chapbook ‘Remembrance’ was published by Origami Condom Press, ‘The Conquest of Somalia’ was published by Cervena Barva Press, ‘The Dance of Hate’ was published by Calliope Nerve Media, ‘Material Questions’ was published by Silkworms Ink, ‘Dispossessed’ was published by Medulla Press and ‘Mutilated Girls’ was published by Heavy Hands Ink. A collection of his poetry ‘Days of Destruction’ was published by Skive Press. Another collection ‘Expectations’ was published by Rogue Scholars Press and ‘Dawn in Cities’ is being published by Winter Goose Press. His novel ‘Acts of Defiance’ is being published by Trestle Press. His original plays and translations of Moliere, Aristophanes and Sophocles have been produced Off Broadway. His poetry has appeared in hundreds of literary magazines. He currently lives in New York City.