I Slash my Flesh

 I slash at my flesh 

By the time you read these words 

they have torn through me 

ripping their way out 

I cut myself open 

Feeding those around me—

Friends and strangers alike—

Pouring in love and hate 

Hope and despair 

Their caustic offerings 

Tear at my soul 

Tearing off pieces 

The words you devour—

They are part of my flesh  

They are part of my soul 

I slash at my skin 

To give you something 

That feels like truth 

© Ron Simpson Jr. 

June 8, 2025