the first thing I say
is lucky you,
I am a switch.
I have just learned a basic knot.
I pull out the pad.
you are secured to purple
velvet chair and the highlight
of a decade of chant.
here is where I begin:

I start by slaughtering your brothers
in front of you to see
if you can stand it.

I begin to read old love letters
out loud to see if you
can stand it.