when will i shed

this scaly muzzle

x mark

these scored sleeves

when will i shake                       the bloody plots of finger nails

the itch

the picking

claws that pull crusts

when will i emerge                   poking my shiny gizzards

from my dry dermis

as succulent, pink pearl

when ma smothers me

in ointment

i ask

when will i shed

this lizard skin?