I grip my sudsy scalp, trying to wash out every whisper of his skin, his breath, his convincing words and broken promises. This isn’t the usual small circles, a gentle lather. It’s jolted and furious and directionless, how I felt when I first found myself falling in love with him. I told him no and…
I only have five rules. The rule of thumb: I refuse to be diminished, destroyed, or derailed by men. The rule of forefinger: I am my own number one. The rule of middle finger: fuck apologizing for things I’m not sorry for. The rule of ring finger: I am more than the ring that may…
I saw Dad claw his left shoulder and slide to the hardwood floor. Enormous ambulance men simultaneously asked me what happened and shoved me aside. Since then, I swore I’d never fall into the habit, but being part of Sam’s everything came to include cigarettes. Suddenly they were around the house, in my purse, constantly…
Today, I check the box To choose what’s best for me I elect to never settle I stand by a vote of confidence in myself I’ll speak if I want to I’ll smile if I want to I’ll leave if I want to You can tilt your head You can wonder how I’m so sure…
Along came November, not a single expectation in sight. Before was October, skeptical that you’d text, but managing a word here or there. In September there was some hope, some rebalancing and figuring out where we fit each other. August was our bittersweet denouement, spending every possible moment together, as if that could ward off…
Did you know nine people were killed last week? I hate that nine people died. I hate that because he wasn’t black or brown they didn’t mention his race or assume his motive. I hate that nine people died. I hate that we know this routine, that it’s become routine. I hate that nine people…
What it is: Mouthful of Forevers is the newest book of poetry by Clementine von Radics. I’ve been a fan of her work for years, having seen her perform at the Portland Poetry Slam since I was in high school. She also hosts a writing workshop before the slam every week and I’ve really enjoyed…
“Next on our open mic…Sabina!!” I grabbed the crumpled sheet of paper at my feet and stood up, practically tripping over the emcee as I walked up to the stage. “This is my first time reading,” I said, and the crowd responded by cheering and waving their “Muppet Arms” excitedly in the air, a tradition…
I remember the photo I should’ve taken–two teenage girls in plaid skirts chatting and leaning on a police barricade as if it was no big deal. I remember the bizarrely empty 2am bus. I remember not expecting forgiveness. I remember not being forgiven. I remember sitting with her on the back patio, hating every single sound she spoke and…
Drag out the duffel bag And stuff it until the zipper Pinches your new clothes For the harsh winters you aren’t used to. Slide in a few photos from high school, Tell yourself you’ll keep in touch. “We’ll talk every day!” But you won’t. Rehearse your speech: name, major, hometown Favorite ice cream,…
Victim to Charm 