Before the Operation
by Ute Carson
The Flapper Press Poetry Cafe, February 2023

Let kisses rain down on waiting nipples
as desire once more electrifies the body.
Then with the milk of love on your palm
soothe the anxious skin.
Comfort is embedded in touch,
the memory of countless caresses.
Your body will need such a bolster.
During the procedure you’ll be alone.

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