The Chain

photocredit- Adrian McDonald

“My daughter,

as you go to your husband’s house

be very submissive.

Learn to tender to his needs all the time

and at whatever time he demands of you.

He is your Lord,

make sure you remember this always.

Remember to give his ego a three course meal,

balanced in diet.

this is how I’ve survived with your father all these years”.

 I spit these same words into my daughter’s palms

and let her rub it on her skin like ointment.

Let them slide in like salt into seasoned meat

so she wouldn’t have to cook herself for him.

For if she tastes not nice his tongue will long for another.

I kiss my daughters forehead,

the aftermath tastes like betrayal.

Have I made her swift and meet for death?

For I have become a forerunner of doom

as I prepare her for a solemn casket.