Synthetic Fibers

This jacket is a lie

made of oil and heat,

pressed into the shape of a man

who doesn't sweat through his shirt.

The lining is a slick, plastic skin

that crackles against my ribs

every time I reach for the pen.

The tag at the nape is a serrated edge,

sawing at the soft part of my neck

to remind me I’m just visiting

this tax bracket.