Paternalism

I suffocate beneath
its purple velvet folds.
A blanket of benevolence:
I am trapped by its weight.

Limbs struggle
and wrestle.
Weary futility.
My energy sapped
by this malign munificence.

I do not need your pity,
                       your protection
                                  your provision.

Your patronizing platitudes - I'll be patient no more!

Remove the cloth and free me
See me.
A woman strong and steely.

But you will not have me so...

 I suffocate beneath
its purple velvet folds;
the material muffling my screams...