When I come in— you creak open my ribs. I am mute while you inspect— blinded— asking where the pain is. But everything looks to be— working normally! you say. Wires thread my parallel bones— stitch me up with a pat—send me on my way—but not before you tell me —the scars will fade—my dear— held gaze—peripheral linger. Later—I will go running—a need— I will feel—pulling—hurting eyes—watching—eyes—lingering I will catch —my reflection in windows— flattening —but not in the way I want—this— is not— eyes linger—watch— follow—everywhere—eyes watching looking owning— Later I stand before the mirror— remove the cloth it’s red beneath— I stand before the mirror— I rip myself to pieces—with eyes— I tear up—I tear up—I tear— I’m all salt-like —an iodine dream— dazzling red—damp delight— until I become what I was
before you.