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How to vanish

Instructions for an emotional disappearance

By Susan Fourtané Published about a year ago Updated about a year ago 1 min read
How to vanish
Photo by Ozan Safak on Unsplash

Step one: remove your name from your mouth.

Step two: fold your shadow until it fits a matchbox.

Breathe once. Forget you did.

Keep walking backwards until the air forgets your weight.

Don’t wave. Don’t pause.

Repeat: I am unthreading.

Repeat: I am unthreading.

Leave your eyes on the windowsill for the rain to borrow.

Trade your heartbeat for static.

When they call, answer with wind.

When they search, let the mirrors lie.

Last step: become the space between raindrops,

No edges, no echo, no you.

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©susanfourtane 2025

fact or fictionhow tosurreal poetry

About the Creator

Susan Fourtané

Susan Fourtané is a Science and Technology Journalist, a professional writer with over 18 years experience writing for global media and industry publications. She's a member of the ABSW, WFSJ, Society of Authors, and London Press Club.

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    Written by Susan Fourtané