"The Puppet's Host."
I wanted to share some raw, personal writing that I've turned into a piece called
"The Puppet's Host."
The Puppet's Host
By Lisa J Thompson
© 2025 Lisa J Thompson. All Rights Reserved.
(Verse 1)
They come with love, they come with open hands,
To share the sobriety they understand.
But the listener knows only how to deny,
And poke the holes in every tearful "why."
The excuses are rehearsed, the script is old,
A story of blame, bravely and fiercely told.
It's your fault, not mine, the bitter, common plea,
As the mirror stays shattered, and the true self can’t see.
(Pre-Chorus)
The chest puffs out, the head is held up high,
"I could drop this habit, if I only try."
"I don't need this liquor, I don't need this high."
(Chorus)
But listen close to the truth that they fail to think:
It’s not you that runs your life, it’s the drink.
The addiction is the master, and you are the stage,
The puppet's host, locked inside a cage.
It pulls the strings, it dictates every move,
The only way to dance is the way it approves.
(Verse 2)
"I am stronger than my problem," is the lie,
Whisper softly as they watch their life slip by.
They hide the shakes, the sweat, the hidden need,
Mistaking weakness for a strength decreed.
They swear the medicine is always optional,
That the habit is something they can control.
But the empty bottle tells a different tale,
As self-deception starts once again to prevail.
(Pre-Chorus)
The chest puffs out, the head is held up high,
"I could drop this habit, if I only try."
"I don't need this liquor, I don't need this high."
(Chorus)
But listen close to the truth that they fail to think:
It’s not you that runs your life, it’s the drink.
The addiction is the master, and you are the stage,
The puppet's host, locked inside a cage.
It pulls the strings, it dictates every move,
The only way to dance is the way it approves.
(Bridge)
Oh, the addiction is the one that's wearing the coat,
It’s using the host just to stay afloat.
The master's hand, unseen but terribly near,
Pulling the strings of control and of fear.
When the string is pulled, you spin and you sway,
And your free will is simply canceled out today.
(Chorus)
But listen close to the truth that they fail to think:
It’s not you that runs your life, it’s the drink.
The addiction is the master, and you are the stage,
The puppet's host, locked inside a cage.
It pulls the strings, it dictates every move,
The only way to dance is the way it approves.
( END OF LYRICS )
I'm curious to know: Which part of these lyrics hits you the hardest?
I appreciate you taking the time to read them. ❤️
#Lyrics
#AddictionAwareness
"The Puppet's Host" by Lisa J Thompson poetically explores the harrowing experience of addiction through vivid metaphor and emotional depth. Addiction is vividly portrayed as the master pulling the strings behind the scenes, transforming the individual into a puppet locked inside a cage. This representation aligns with a common struggle many face, where free will is suppressed and the addiction dictates every decision and action. This work sheds light on the psychological battle of denial and self-deception common in addiction. The lyric highlights how individuals often blame external factors or themselves, while the drink—the addiction—holds true control. This echoes real-life patterns where addicts might claim strength and control while secretly battling visible symptoms like tremors and overwhelming cravings. The metaphor of the 'puppet's host' and 'shadow play,' referenced in the poem and the image text, poignantly expresses the dual life of those affected: outward appearances of dignity and control masking inner turmoil and captivity. The poem’s repeated refrain emphasizing that "It’s not you that runs your life, it’s the drink" powerfully invites reflection and awareness, crucial for understanding addiction as a disease rather than a mere flaw or choice. In real life, recovery programs emphasize recognizing this control addiction has and help individuals reclaim their agency. Support groups, therapy, and medical interventions work to weaken addiction’s hold, replace the puppet strings with empowered choices, and restore the shattered mirror to reveal the authentic self. This poem can resonate deeply with anyone affected by addiction—whether personally or through loved ones—offering a voice to complex emotions and the painful yet hopeful journey towards sobriety. Readers may find particular connection with the verses describing isolation, denial, and the illusion of control. The poem's structure encourages readers to acknowledge addiction’s grip while fostering empathy. Sharing such authentic, raw expression encourages open dialogue on addiction awareness and mental health, reducing stigma and supporting those in need. Overall, "The Puppet's Host" serves as both a moving artistic expression and a meaningful call to awareness and compassion. It reminds us that addiction is a controlling force disguising itself in shadows, and true strength lies in breaking free from this covert master.
