Within Her Skin

…first love,

she left me bleeding,

venison hanging

for the hyenas’ feeding.

It was over before

I started talking.

Her flip-flopping feet

were already off walking.

The robot within her skin

disturbed me,

when she said she was dirty

and doesn't deserve me.

My first love

never caught me creeping

outside her window

to watch her sleeping.

But, seeing her old man,

a-stumbling drunk.

I heard her scream.

Put him in my trunk.

The robot within her skin

was gone.

Her father sank through the water

and we rolled…


By Paul Resnick

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The Kissing Post

…sat on the curved top of the yellow fire hydrant.

The streetlamp light illuminating her in a soft white glow.

Her burgundy curls shine black in the halo.

She smiles.

Inches from her face is a virgin kiss.

The other girl stands, fingers touching the tips of her own.

The flirtation of winter tickles their skin;

cool air and early…


By Catori Sarmiento

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