I lie in bed on my side awake
listening to the clock in my ear
ticking the time for my life's sake.

I lie on my side awake in bed
knowing the pulse that I can hear
is consciousness inside my head.

I lie awake in bed on my side
and the ticking clock makes it clear
I haven't slept although I tried.

I lie on my side in bed awake
and try to pacify the fear
my ageing heart makes some mistake.

I lie awake on my side in bed
wondering, in some future year,
if I will know when I am dead.

I lie in bed awake on my side
anxious to sleep but able to cheer
another night that I haven't died.