Feeling All and Nothing

A poem by Elle Barrett

I’ve never understood pain scales when it comes to emotions.
I either feel nothing at all or as if I’m being flayed alive.

A 7 doesn’t adequately convey the fist pulsating around my heart.
A 10 would have me labeled a liar, dramatic,  
seeking the attention I must not be getting at home.

I am not content; I am ecstatic.

I don’t feel sad; this depth of grief has yet to be discovered.