There is witchcraft on my lips
Painted on in perfect shades of burgundy wine
Dark as blood
I speak spells of my mother and my grandmother
Careful deceptions
Glamours for safety
I say "I'm sorry" when I mean I'm scared
I say "thank you" when I mean leave me alone
I pay attention to the phases of the moon
When there will be less light, less safety
Or when the fullness of the lunar presence drives men insane
I know when the sun has settled
Aware when shadows turn to hands
I know that blood is power and shame
I walk with the shrouds of my ancestors draping me in wisdom
In fear
Fear of the curves they prey on
Fear of the teeth they flash in wide smiles
When they promise me it's just a joke
My sovereignty is a joke
Trust them
Trust them
Trust them
Chanting all around me
But there is witchcraft in my blood
Memories of my mothers
Warnings they gave in fairy tales
Protection they gave in kisses and nighttime assurances
Hold yourself tight
Walk tall, girl
Bite your lip
But remember your teeth are sharp too
Women are wolves too
Be wild
Be strong
Let them forget your strength
But you must always remember
