Matchbook XIII
This is it. Here it is. You can do it. It is the right thing to do. If you just set it on fire, I
will reward you. Hear my voice. I am all. You don't have to be afraid anymore. This
will heal you. I will take care of your pain. These gates will open wide for you. This
matchbook and that lighter is all you need. I command you. You are so good, my
disciple. Let the fire burn the sins off your skin. It is good, this fire, and this sacrifice.
in the emergency room
the burn victim
clings to life
Luis Cuauhtemoc Berriozabal works in the mental health field in Los Angeles. His first chapbook, Without Peace, was published by Kendra Steiner Editions in July 2007.