The Narcissist

Apr 23, 2026

I’m sorry if this energy I feel seems directed at anyone in particular,

But I will not apologize, because what I feel is valid.

Instead, I will aggress, dominate, and berate you.

This isn’t anyone’s fault, but you will deal with it all the same, because I say so.

I will invite you to share your piece, but if you begin to talk,

Suddenly you’re speaking over me, which is unforgivable and warrants attack.

If I correct you, I am simply putting you in your place.

As I know all, so do I feel all… for all.

My requests will be borderline impossible, if at least not contradicting.

This ensures that no matter the amount of effort, or work you put in.

Your toiling will produce nothing more than a pillory for which

I can continue to entertain and arouse my own sensitivities.

And if you should dare to question me, to accuse me, of harm or foul play,

Will incite the same day I fall victim to the horror and abuses of your true essence.

Performance comes naturally to me, and the wronged and trampled I shall play.

If there is any goodness in the world, it is within me; if wrongness, it is outside me.

The prize of the game is not always in the control, but the practice of the sport itself.

Control is an emergent property and secondary benefit to the actual reward.

Don’t you dare call it manipulation, selfish, or malevolent.

I have to do this for you, the uneducated and the dependent.

I will build a shelter that you will label a prison.

My rehabilitation you will call condescension.

I’m forced to handle all responsibilities as a result of your incompetence,

And even this you will state is oppressive.

But if not I, then whom?

Only my experience is valid.

Only I am gifted.

I am God.

DE DeGraw, Author/Poet/Artist