the way a pagan princess might
high, muttering, and babbling
telling stories
recounting sins
like the myths nations use
to build themselves. she laughs all crazy
then spits and curses her name
then hugs herself
and falls down. When
she hits the floor,
she cries; then
she forgets
our names and starts
speaking in tongues
(we think maybe). But
when it’s over
all we can ever know
is erased in the mascara
running down her face.
