In the depths of shadowed thought, Where whispers twist and dread is caught, Lurks a beast, both ancient, sly, Hidden 'neath the conscious eye. Its talons sweep through dreams at night, Casting shadows, cloaked in fright, A monstrosity, a spectral play, Feeding on the fears we daren't convey. Eyes aglow, yet never seen, In the mind, where fears convene; It lies in wait, in corners dark, To strike with silence, leaving its mark. A horror born of one's own mind, A whispered terror, undefined, It wakes when doubt and reason sway— A nightmare one can't keep at bay.