defective rite(?)

the sparks flutter outward as i heave the plug from the outlet

the room is quiet now--a stygian darkness that engulfs my surroundings for a brief interstice

i hold my breath.

the smoke is effusive, crawling nebulaic formations around my shadowed room

i hack out a lungful of smoke

nothing changed. i'm still me. 

my own glossy eyes glare into mine as i gingerly choke out a breath

my fists tighten out of reflex. anger washed over me suddenly.

why isn't the rite working? it worked for the others. why not me?

i screamed and hurled my fist at the delicate mirror before me.

it shattered on my fist, slicing sizzling holes in my soft flesh

i will never be perfect.