How To Bathe A Body

Ace Mosier

Do not reach for vinegar.

Do not ponder the solvents in

your medicine cabinet that would cause lively flesh to burn and blister

from the hands and feet

As scorching water pounds

fast and hard against the tender skin

So fragile

So filthy

And if you already have, do not

try to wash away the scars and cuts and bruises of a life you

tried to forget

Of a death you tried to forget

Do not shampoo the scalp to the point where hair and skin is

carried away

Along with the usual bits-

dandruff, lice, bits of

congealed blood

And do not bother with

conditioner.

You cannot soften strands of

hair anymore than you can

soften what’s coming.

Do not take the body from the

tub

Do not hide the damaged bits

with its former clothing - for to

do so would be a mockery of the will of its owner -

And as the flesh rots from

bone

Do not attempt to hide the stench with bottles of perfume

Because the perfume will wash

away, but you know the flies

are more persistent.

And you know you cannot take this body anywhere -

Will not take this body

anywhere -

Because anyone who knew

them will know their place is in

a casket.

They can move on, but you

cannot.

Do not move on.