Dramatic Poem

One voice whispers one’s silent desire
While the other expresses trepidation.
One is always torn between programmings
And the authentic v(o/io)l(i/a)tion of the self.

Read as:

And the authentic volition of the self
And the authentic violation of the self.

Wait, no,
Read as:

And the authentic [pause,
As if discerning
How to read the poem]
Volition… [look surprised]
Wait, no…
[Rapidly and with conviction]
Violation,
[Then squint while hesitating]
No… [squint harder,
Then breathe in deeply
As if experiencing divine revelation,
Triumphantly, perhaps
While smiling]

Volition of the self.