We believe villains are more than just two dimensional evil-doers. They're complex characters who rarely get to share their stories. The concept may seem silly, but empathy is a skill. If we can practice it here, we just might have a shot at understanding the 'villains' in our everyday lives.
Forgive me at last, Brother,
for the death sentence: a kiss
that revealed me, an act of obedience
which began your martyrdom.
Who else but you—who loves
me still—could I ask to bear blame
for my murder for all time?
I knew too of the wind of stones
conjured by our brothers
that would split you like a fig,
your blood not grieved but
misnamed justice for my flesh’s end.
They could not conceive that it was
the Great One’s will—not yours—
to stage a betrayal with your lips;
that you must be sacrificed so I could be.
*Note: This piece was originally published in THE RUMPUS (April 14, 2014)
Daniel W.K. Lee is the author of ANATOMY OF WANT (QueerMojo/Rebel Satori Press, 2019) and lives in New Orleans. More about him at danielwklee.com