Maryam

Baby's first breath Billows and curls Like his fingers Sealing themselves to yours Baby's first summons Make your nipples harden Like an apparition Whispering a suggestion The cold water will be more pleasant Than the bruises, cigarette burns, and belt-beatings Underneath the surface Are your indiscretions, indecisions, and mistakes Maryam, why don't you get in the water It will cool your shame Maryam, why don't you just let him go