It's been a long time since my birthmarks 
made me fret
or I could mindfully admire the beauty
of a spinning thread

It's been a long time since my troubles
had a name
but how can I come clear and how
can I try to explain

with all those needles through my tongue
   all those needles through my tongue

It's been a long time since I felt necessity
or even tried to while away an instant

It's been a long time since the evidence
was clear
but how can I speak unmistakably
and without fear

with all those needles through my tongue
   all those needles through my tongue

It's been a long time since my troubles
had a name
but how can I talk unmistakably
and without shame

with all those needles through my tongue
   all those needles through my tongue