Daredevil’s Dread

 

Daredevil’s Dread

~

to be shot from a cannon
into the cool night air
is really no big deal

to face a barrage
of flying knives
isn’t really that unreal

to leap through the fire
of a flaming hoop
the warmth is kind’a nice

jumping giant chasms
on two-wheeled fury
sure – let’s do it twice

to be blown up
in a speeding car
sort’a turns me on

falling 20-story
from a skyscraper
I’m up over and gone

riding upside down
on an airplane wing
it’s the only way to fly

the high trapeze
without a net
I wouldn’t bat an eye

buried alive
in a padlocked tomb
count 10 and I’ll cheat death

chained in steel
tossed in the sea
no need to hold my breath



the sphere of fear
the dome of doom
the bungee-cord freefall

to walk blazing coals
swallow deadly swords
no sweat — I’ve done them all

almost nothing scares
this bold daredevil
I am very proud to say

save the single thing
of which I’m terrified

to give my heart away



~ ~ ~

rob kistner © 2010
(revised © 2018)

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  • top 2 photos: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus
  • bottom photo: source unknown
  • 21 thoughts on “Daredevil’s Dread”

    1. This is fantastic, exactly what the prompt requires.
      I’m struggling with this one – I have three sort-of drafts but none of them appeals. I need help!

      As for you, you are a towering force for poetry!
      ViV

    2. Man did you ever nail this one. I didn’t even see the prompt. Didn’t have to see it to know that.

      Handing someone the keys to your heart is as terrifying a proposition as there is. You’re never more vulnerable than that. Not.Ever.

      Love this!

    3. I like the rhythm of this celebration of daredevilry and recognition that mere courage of the body is little compared to the courage it takes to connect with another human being. Nice, Rob!

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