the larynx croaks inward devotion an existence hewn from varicose flesh palatal tones pass dimly outward from a slurred and careworn wretch s mouth bereft of love self inflicted the molded image of a crippled whelp marked with a benign crow s foot and wallowing in placidity and from the same loam i was borne and cut a wicked lich spiraling senseless caustic pariah pitch smeared visage boring through you