Night Vision by Erin Anderson

My Body, Gutted By Lauren Tally

Pushed through double doors, I am hit with their one-sidedness— Truth is a foreign concept today In the operating light, My shame is on display.

Sedated, heart stopped Told he is caring for my health Impossible I am being cured by a man sicker than myself: Dr. Deluder

Darkened eyes, lips upturned Trails a knife down my chest Misguided patience Making me an easy conquest for Dr. Defacer.

Bloodied hands form melodies with my ribs then call them “out-of-tune”— Though I received it first from man I would ask why he does this, but I know it’s because he can. He’s Dr. Defier

Immobilized, heart detached Others invited in All here to tell me that Surviving means to sin Say, I was “kissed” by plyers Given the “gift to please” Pushing me towards silence In a wretched attempt to ease Dr. “Daring”