Word Like These

I stand before a jury, with only words like these.
I stand before a jury, of peers and thieves.
My words have been stolen, broken over bended knees.
My words mean nothing when they are only meant to appease.

I live in the moment, and the moment before,
I live like a prisoner, always stuck wanting more.
But what can I say, what can I do, when there’s nothing I adore.
My hands are empty, my wrists are sore.

I want to sleep forever, and dream of something better.
But my dreams are nightmares, waking me with terror.
Sweat slick, deriving no pleasure,
From the way my body burns like embers.

I am a daydream and a shell,
I walk among the living while I sleep in hell.
There's a ringing inside, a soft sounding bell,
And I remember why nothing went well.

It's because I stand with words like these,
Meant only for the ears of thieves.
I've broken my own words over bended knees,
I've taught myself they are only meant to appease.