I CAUGHT MY DEMOND
by Aseneh Nadesh Anjoh
I caught my demon, tickling my nerves, pocking my veins
I caught my demon playing the death drum above my head.
I caught my demon dancing to a tune that had lost its rhythm,
Wiggling its tail to sounds –
Sounds and shrieks that saddened my heart.
I caught my demon whispering in my ear
Insane thoughts.
Thoughts about the serenity of death,
About the cooling of blood,
About the tans-like state.
I caught my demon going down memory lane;
Reminding me of what I used to be,
Always ready to cross to the other side;
Searching for a peace not of this world and beyond.
I caught my demon smiling at me
When my cheeks glazed with tears
And my eyes blurred with water.
I caught my demon walk away,
When I sank
Sank to point zero
My palms moist,
My heart racing.
I saw my demon,
He triggered me.
Nadesh Anjoh’s Biography
Aseneh Anjoh is a 29 year old female and Cameroonian living in Cameroon. She is a teacher, writer and a PhD candidate at the University of Bamenda in Cameroon, where she is immersed in her studies while living in a city deeply impacted by ongoing armed conflict. This challenging environment has profoundly shaped her perspective and creative expression. Anjoh’s personal journey is marked by a long-standing battle with anxiety disorder, which has been exacerbated by years of trauma and abuse. In addition to her own struggles, she has lived with relatives who suffer from mental illness, providing her with a unique insight into the complexities of mental health. These experiences have ignited her dedication to advocating for mental health awareness and support. Writing serves as her sanctuary, a powerful tool through which she processes her emotions, confronts her past, and finds strength. Through poetry and short stories, Anjoh explores themes of resilience, healing, and human experiences. Her work often reflects not only her own journey but also the stories of those around her, highlighting the shared struggles and triumphs of individuals facing mental health challenges.
Anjoh believes in the transformative power of storytelling and aims to inspire others to embrace their own experiences, fostering understanding and connection in the process. Through her words, she hopes to encourage dialogue around mental health, break down stigmas, and empower individuals to seek healing and support.