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By Danielle Boodoo-Fortuné

Lemon balm is for forgiveness.
Pull up from the root, steep
in boiling water. Add locusts’ wings,
salt, the dried bones of hummingbirds.
Drink when you feel ready.
Drink even if you do not.


Pepper seeds are for courage.
Sprinkle them on your tongue.
Sprinkle in the doorway and along
the windowsill. Mix pepper and water
to a thick paste. Spackle the cracks
in the concrete, anoint the part
in your hair. You need as much
courage as you can get.


Water is for healing.
Leave a jar open beneath the full moon.
Let it rest. Water your plants.
Wash your face. Drink.


The sharpened blade is for memory.
Metal lives long, never grows weary
of our comings and goings. Wrap this blade
in newspaper. Keep beneath your bed.
Be patient, daughter.
Be patient.


Source: Poetry (June 2019)

  • Mythology & Folklore
  • Social Commentaries

Poet Bio

Danielle Boodoo-Fortuné
Danielle Boodoo-Fortuné is a poet and visual artist from Trinidad and Tobago whose first book of poems is Doe Songs (Peepal Tree Press, 2018). See More By This Poet

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