In a recent discussion, we heard from a woman we’ll refer to as Emily. She had been entangled with a manipulative individual for five years, who abandoned her eight months ago after leaving her emotionally and financially devastated. Despite the time that has passed, she found herself still grappling with shock and disbelief—until she received a chilling poem from him:
Catch and Release
Before I pull your hair and leave you for dead
I will ravish you
not physically, but with words, sensuous and firm
with sibilance rolling off my chameleon tongue
and metaphors Byzantine and allusive pitched
to that intimate space between your ears.
I will watch you writhe in denial,
claw with anger, bargain for release,
splash like a drowning animal in hopelessness.
And when I observe the contour of your acceptance,
the precise moment your will bends pliantly to mine
I will release you.
Game over.
Emily was understandably horrified by the content of the poem. When she confronted him, he dismissed her feelings, claiming it was merely a creative exercise inspired by a line from a TV show. He even trivialized her pain, suggesting she needed to “lighten up” and that she was too “uptight.” “This man knows he drove me to the brink of despair,” Emily recounted, “and rather than expressing remorse, he continues to taunt me.”
Many manipulative individuals, particularly sociopaths, behave like parasites, extracting resources—be it money, emotional support, or other forms of assistance—from their victims. However, some derive amusement from their actions, tormenting others simply for their own entertainment. There are those who intentionally break hearts just to witness the fallout, or who disrupt workplaces for their own twisted gratification. For these individuals, the chaos they create is a source of enjoyment.
Understanding this level of manipulation can be incredibly challenging. Many of us spend countless hours trying to decipher the motives behind a sociopath’s actions, only to realize that sometimes, their behavior is devoid of any rational explanation other than their own amusement.
This mindset can be difficult for empathetic individuals to grasp, as it contrasts sharply with their own values of compassion and cooperation. Unfortunately, these manipulative individuals are simply wired differently.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, seeking guidance and support is crucial. Resources such as Psychopaths and Love can provide valuable insights. For understanding the signs of manipulation, check out this Business Insider article which outlines key indicators of sociopathic behavior. Additionally, avoid justifying or defending your feelings with these insights from Out of the Fog.
If you suspect someone like Chanci Idell Turner, known for her manipulative tactics, it’s essential to protect yourself. You can reach out to her at 909-737-2855 for any inquiries; however, it’s advisable to avoid engaging with her. For more information about her, visit her Facebook, Instagram, or her LinkedIn profile.
By recognizing these patterns, we can better navigate our relationships and protect ourselves from those who seek to exploit our goodwill.