Hooked

there’s a point in the center of my chest

that stings a little in a tolerable way

like a harsh bruise that has mellowed

to a murky yellow between my breasts

it might be spreading- I couldn’t tell

but it’s been sinking, burning through

and when I inhale the end of my breath

catches on the hooks its planted

deep long fingers into my cavity

tugging something loose

meat in the factory

and in dull pulse

it comes

free