“Last Words” is a standalone, free verse poem. The impetus was overhearing a colleague call me a “sweet girl” as I drove away. The speaker in “Last Words” makes their peace with those who will mourn them one day.

This piece accompanies other works inspired by the Kruger quote, “You construct intricate rituals which allow you to touch the skin of other men,” in Marías at Sampaguitas Issue 5: Rituals. Poetry entries in this issue were edited by Keana Aguila Labra, Maria Bolaños, and Dina Klarisse.