11:00 p.m.

My critic likes black coffee and bold red wine.

My critic tells me I should go to bed earlier and drink more water.

My critic keeps my secrets safe.

My critic refuses any creative attempt I make.

My critic points our double negatives and irregularities in syntax.

My critic whispers stop wasting time in my ear when I put pen on paper.

My critic’s favorite shows are The Great British Bakeoff and Sabrina the Teenage Witch.

My critic tells me to toughen up when my body says rest.

My critic also enjoys TikTok and Instagram.

My critic points out flaws every chance it gets.

My critic protects my softest, most vulnerable parts with barbed wire fences.

My critic works too hard, like me.

My critic loves avocado toast and procrastinating.

My critic also loves working forty hours a week.

My critic tells me dreams aren’t practical.

My critic doesn’t believe in art.

My critic disapproves of taking risks.

My critic thinks a crop top is a risk.

My critic likes non-dairy Ben & Jerry’s Peanut Butter Half-Baked after a good cry.

My critic rubs my back when I fail.

My critic implores me to try again.