Taste test
Amanda Raczkowski

I expected lips. Dead or alive, but with lips.
-- Aimee Bender, "What You Left in the Ditch"

My lips no longer consume anything but you. Liquor and other sorts I turn back from. From what new bottle am I to kiss? You say, I can understand wine as an aphrodisiac. I say, I can understand your fascination. Last night I saw him, the one I used to drink wine with. The wood grain of the bar reflects what I know as past. Sipping next to him, your contamination persists on my lips. You say, I can understand wine as an aphrodisiac. I say, I cannot condone your fascination. There is no ceremony known to me. Wine as wine, not ceremony. He moves closer and I do not resist, thinking that licking my lips will remove you. He says, From what new bottle are you kissing?

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