Submissions by JessaBean

Unlike most other ear piercings we do not initially pierce the Conch with a ball closure ring. Instead we fit Conch piercings with barbells as these are more comfortable to wear during the healing process.

The average healing time for these piercings is 10-12 weeks.
- Taken from www.fluxpiercing.co.uk.


it’s not infected, he tells me, as though that were the worst thing
but it will not heal - wakes me throbbing in the night
warm water and salt, he says, gentle antiseptic
my neck finds unnatural angles
stretches until delicate folds...

one of my elbows - I think it’s the left
still enjoys cost accounting
all other appendages have shaken it off
shudder even at the thought of those dry methodical terms
and the rules that house them
but something in that elbow is reassured
the joints move freer in their simple
back and forth motion
upon remembering that debits and credits will equal
if only entered properly


the roof of my mouth is determined to speak French
and waits patiently for my tongue to understand
the angle at which it must reach up ...