Bound to this Earth. I’m looking for salvation. Death sits in the passenger seat, The wheel is in my hands as I turn on your lane I can never forget the home we built. Its key forever in my pocket and I’ve tucked Old receipts into leather wallets. The shadow of a ring imprinted on my finger, It took a bit to get it off. You forced it on. Death stops the car— He turns. Peering into my face. Eyeing my black adornment. Chains lay on my legs, link by link, They clank as I move quietly I don’t want to anger you, with so much noise. I open the door and walk the path, as you stand over my bed There are roses in your hand. Taken from the vase, I placed them days ago. A few petals have fallen. Colors faded. You grab my hand As we begin our eternal damnation A dance that never ends. You always cue for another song even though My shoes are worn and sweat trickles down my neck. I stand there as Your hot tongue licks it up And death never stops once. Death sits in my car. He doesn’t fade away. The ignition is off, a hum continues Its melody long forgotten, Yet always remembered The car door opens And Death makes his exit—
Danielle Marrocco, ’25