Structural Integrity

My boss was talking about 'growth' and 'drive,'

while I was just trying to stay alive.

I saw a loop of nylon on my wrist,

a tiny black snake with a subtle twist.

I couldn't hear a word about my 'goals'

or how the company fills its various holes.

I leaned down low and gave it a bite—

it didn't go well, it didn't feel right.

A mouthful of fuzz and a puckered seam,

I looked like a man in a fever dream.

A strand of it stuck to my glasses' frame,

a shimmering line. I have no shame—

no, I have plenty. I just couldn't stop

until the whole sleeve started to drop.

He asked me if I was 'feeling okay.'

I swallowed the thread and looked away.