Christine

If it bleeds,
it bleeds.

you thought as you
picked up the kitchen knife.

All morning long
that block of ice
could not numb the life
that throbbed so reluctantly
in your member.

Lino,
the patio,
the soft afternoon light
of Sydney in winter.
The sound of the
television
on in the other room.

You pulled the dial
around to zero
Threes times
you repeated that action
your hand a shadow
hovering over the telephone.

Ambulance, please.

37 Williams St
Kingscross.

The moment you put down
the receiver,
you brought the knife
down on yourself
as well.

The first sex change operation
ever performed in Australia.

Yes, it is urgent.

There is a woman here bleeding to death.