Ritual to Bring a Murdered Woman Back to Life

Ella Deitz

Gather: eight candles one love letter fresh flowers her favorite drink three things you’ve stolen from a man something sweet

Light a candle.

Punch a hole in the wall. Do not say sorry. Let the dry white powder sting your knuckles and get on everything that you touch.

Light a candle.

Read the letter out loud. Address it to yourself.

Light a candle.

Cut the flowers. Separate the bud from the stem. Place them on your altar with all the charm of a man who could kill you if he wanted to and get away with it.

Light a candle.

Pour the drink. Make one for yourself. Be generous with the liquid. Whisper it secrets as you pour.

Light a candle. Do nothing with the stolen things. She just wants to see you take them.

Light a candle

Grab the sweet thing. Eat it with your hands. Gossip into the yellow light. If you are quiet enough after you will hear her laugh.

Light a candle.

Spill the drinks. Invite the flame to kiss the liquor sticky on the carpet.

Light a candle. Tip it over.

You will never feel as warm as you do now.

Liz Khomenkov