offbeat did not begin as an intention

it formed as a condition
one that remained
even when it was resisted

There is comfort here
but it is unstable
earned slowly
and never guaranteed

familiarity appears
then shifts
leaving behind a quiet unease

nothing is offered easily
Nothing is fully explained.

Clarity feels distant
like something remembered incorrectly

What persists is attention
held for too long
without relief

This is not an escape
It is presence

maintained
despite itself