the worm


my finger snakes across the table
demonstrating the path
that a dissecting tool would make
to split the skin of the worm.

its smooth, taut shape
I will slice and pin back,
careful not to cut too deeply-
severing ribless vulnerability.

the lowly invertebrate-
fish bait - earth composter,
the all’s clear after rains -
neither sex – both sexed

opened for discovery,
the guts revealing aortic arches-
five loops carrying the blood
of its five beating hearts.

five hearts, four more
than human, to torment
and devour the one lonely one
you so easily insinuated
your way in to.

my finger remembers
the smooth, sinuous skin 
that covers the cheek
I’ve kissed. how did you
work your way in and not fertilize?

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