Self-Imposed Retreat

It is still there,
the febrile, responsive
femininity deep within
her psyche that responded
like a fresh and lovely
flower bud languorously
opening its dew-kissed petals
to the rising sun. There,
but wounded, subdued
under a protective cloak
shielding her from the
manner of rashly trusting
response that has led her
toward use, abuse and
puzzled abandonment.
Now, wary, uninviting,
she lives in
self-imposed retreat.