At this Body's Mercy.

Our relationship with wounds, viruses, and fatigue.

Before I even begin to type there is a gentle trembling present in my belly.

Speaking and writing of the body—of my body—is one of the niches that I have long occupied both in my own vulnerability and creativity. However, there is something even more sensitive in the topic that I now wish to explore with you than trauma or eroticism or even eroticized trauma.

I wish to speak to you of wounds and bugs, of sensitivities and fear, of stories, sadness, isolation, and shame.

We have been evolving with viruses for millions of years. They move in, “take us down” and even do us in. Certain ones are more socially acceptable, while others evoke suspicion, shame, and fear.

It’s been a week since I felt the tingle.