Nerves & ScaresOne worth keeping

“When the barn door creaks at night, a smart farmer don't go back to sleep.”

Kasparov's bein' told to stay alert — the danger's closer than it looks.

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“Nervous as a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs.”

Danger on every side, and it's all pointed at you.

“Sweatin' like a sinner in church.”

Deeply uncomfortable and sure everyone can tell.

“Shakin' like a leaf on a tall tree.”

Visibly trembling.

“Wound tighter than an eight-day clock.”

Cranked to maximum tension and ticking.

“Jumpy as spit on a hot skillet.”

Popping and hopping at the slightest thing.

“Shakin' like a dog passin' peach pits.”

Trembling through an ordeal best not described further.