the black dog does not stalk or hunt
he hangs, by his claws, on your shoulders and back.
constant, sometimes his weight his bearable,
for a second you might forget his existence
but he is there- always.
you feel the claws tighten, the bloods dripping, your breath quickens
you try and breath,
your falling apart the seams
unravelling
the black dog grips and scratches
his bark is all you can hear
drowning out your cries for help
eventually he will sleep for a while,
but not for long.