In a state of precaution
Minding the straw on the camel’s back
Vigilant for the slightest motion
Ready for an unforeseen attack
Playing extra time with sudden death
Red alert at all times
On the watch with bated breath
A stitch in time saves nine
Soft, yet striking
Off-the-cuff, yet in arrears
Silent, yet seething
Fragile, yet fierce
It’s like boiling milk
Suddenly it will erupt
No warning whatsoever
This build-up will at last let up
And relieve this strained endeavour
Realizing once again
With a hint of embarrassed guilt
Admitting this effort was all in vain
While cleaning the stove of milk