Introduction

When did poetry become

synonymous with self affirmation

synonymous with remedial declarations

synonymous with toxic positivity

-

If I call myself a poet

it is just an excuse to be overdramatic

-

My poetry is selfish

Sad

Chaotic

Cathartic

-

You don't have to tell me my art is wrong

trust me

I've already had that thought

I'm trying this new thing

where I do it anyway

-

If I didn't leave my heaviest words on a page I think

I'd spit them into your mouth when we kiss and

they'd encumber you

Leave us both tasting like vinegar

-

Maybe that's why I have so much trouble

losing weight

-

What I mean is

you won't find yourself here

only me

-

And actually

I have no idea what I taste like.