Compulsion Poem by Robin Shuler

Drowning in a pool of music -
every fiber toned to that melody -
she feels the rhythm in her blood.

Resounding vibrations pounding.
Her steps reveal images
as she twirls and falls accordingly.

The drum of her feet fit perfectly -
the graces of her body pouring
out into the air around her.

Tingling and alive,
her heart races to keep time
as the beat pulsates in her brain.

Audience eyes become riveted.
Lips part to catch lost breath.
Muscles twitch to catch the magic.

The final chords echo in thoughts
as the impulse drains and fades.
Slowly she sinks to the ground.

Still, the music faintly plays
in her mind - her soul.
Yet for now it has released her.

As her heart beats the rhythm
she resists the urges to move;
her cells sing the agony of rejection.