December 3, 2024

Twelve Questions

(Inspired by Bhanu Kapil, “The Vertical Interrogation of Strangers”)

1. Where do you begin the story of you?

2. When did you know?

3. What did you do that was right?

4. What is the purpose of guilt?

5. Who are you now?

6. How are you surviving?

7. Tell me about delight.

8. What are you afraid to forget?

9. What do you risk by remembering?

10. Describe the shape of her fingers.

11. Who said you are no longer a mother?

12. What would happen if you said her name?

    

    The Road to Hana. This patch of forest remembered me, but it said, “Not here.”