Cotton Xenomorph is a literary journal produced with the mission to showcase written and visual art while reducing language of oppression in our community. We are dedicated to uplifting new and established voices while engaging in thoughtful conversation around social justice.

Baby's First Eye Test

Cotton Xenomorph
Hybrid, fiction

BY EMMA BRANKIN

the first time mummy sliced a cow's eye open in the university lab, gristle and slime spilled out
tracked its nerves like glistening wires stared deep into the dull pearl lens considering how imprinted memories must float forever like flotsam in the deep
there are things mummy's own eyes will never forget. things like: her father holding court at the dinner table her childhood cat draped smugly across her chest that perfect curl cascading down her husband's forehead a patient's relief as glasses bend
mummy frowns you can't see her or the worry burrowed into her face your eyes are empty, rejecting every imprint your wires aren't glistening, inside there's nothing but rust

Emma is a teacher from Glasgow, Scotland. She has a Masters in Creative Writing and Education from Goldsmiths College, University of London. She was recently shortlisted for the Bridport Prize's Short Story Contest as well as winning Fugue Fiction's Short Story prize and the To Hull And Back Short Story contest. Other work has appeared in places such as Reflex, X-Ray Literary Magazine and Maudlin House. You can contact her on Twitter via @emmanya

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