Instructions on the Handling
of the Torturer’s Feet

2010, Acrylic and ink on hemp linen; 16 X 79 inches

1. Thread a needle and put it in your pocket

2. Get up out of your chair and place your hands

on the man sitting at the head of the table

pointing a gun.

3. Caress his neck

his neck, his back

his back, his arms

his arms, his waist, and lower.

4. Reach between his thighs

with great tenderness caress him

as if he had not forced anyone ever.

5. Rub his legs, round his knees

his knees, his calves

his calves, his feet

—sad things

neglected flabby ingrown

knobbed and burled.

The toes have curled under so tightly so

6. Rub each one alone

until you clean and soften

these sorry claws

with the oil of your palms.

7. Now quick,

when he swoons with relief

and the gun drops to the floor

take out your needle

sew his feet to yours.

from now on

where you go, he goes

8. Your choices mean everything.