Asleep, when the mind is free and unfettered all seems orderly, correct, uncluttered. The disjointed images flashing in front of closed eyes translate perfectly within the mind into linear narrative. The past and the future come together seamlessly to eclipse all possibility of an existing present. It is a world entirely of memory and hope.

Upon waking, confusion ensues. Interior and exterior demands reach the surface. There is no memory of the peace that was made during the night. Conflicts resolved in earlier darkness reveal themselves as secret whispers. Waking reality seems more repellent than the unconscious nightmares of verbal and physical disputes, than the lost wanderings in basements and attics.

Between these states of reality there is a growing divide. From one direction the view is fine, like from any scenic cliff; normal. Peering from the other side there is fear, and cold, paranoid delusions, and areas of darkness. Is it a vitamin deficiency, hormonal imbalance, hyperactivity, too much or not enough sleep or caffeine? Is it something much more elusive, intangible, and terrifying? Looking in and sorting through the chaos may be the only way to find out.