In a state of precaution
Minding the straw on the camel’s back
Vigilant for the slightest motion
Ready for an unforeseen attack

Playing extra time with sudden death
Red alert at all times 
On the watch with bated breath
stitch in time saves nine

Soft, yet striking
Off-the-cuff, yet in arrears 
Silent, yet seething
Fragile, yet fierce
It’s like boiling milk

Suddenly it will [bad word] 
No warning whatsoever
This build-up will at last let up
And relieve this strained endeavour

Realizing once again
With a hint of embarrassed guilt
Admitting this effort was all in vain
While cleaning the stove of milk