Violet Welts Poem by Akili Amina

This tub is full, it doesn’t need her tears
Has no time for shouting, over crying
Alcohol baths, when violet welts appear
Stinging, shaking body, flinching, flinching

Siblings sit close, no words, eyes so sincere
Bringing dollies, her heart and skin drenching
Alcohol baths, when violet welts appear
Play quietly, this horror, respecting

Brood of anger, she was their cross point, steer
Fear breathing, fear nearing, land straps searing
Alcohol baths, when violet welts appear
“Shh! Secrets are meant for holding, keeping.”

Music box of family thoughts, in revere
Alcohol baths, when violet welts, appear