It’s their simplicity we love –
their tendency to clean up
after themselves,
but also the limits on our baggage:
what will fit on five hangers and a couple of shelves;
our sudden transformation into this.
Like loving was a first kiss,
the calm-limbed body minus its head,
we put our things in order
(eyes avoiding the wall art)
and shove the emptied bag under the bed.
If only there were more channels,
and less of a clinical whiff to the air,
and maybe real milk,
we’re certain we could make a start.
Instead, a telephone call
and if there’s a dilemma, all the better.
We know that. We can play that part.