I hear my footsteps on the pavement
The tightness in my chest is intensified
By heavier footsteps
Following mine
I feel like a piece of meat
A cartoon woman
Meant only to be whistled at
I walk faster
So does he
I start to try and cross the street
And he walks past me
The fear in my chest lingers
But lessens
I unclench my hands
I hadn’t realized they had become fists
I may be ready to fight
I may be scared
I may be alone
But at least
I am
Alive.
Written by Lucy Anderson