Inside The Pod (Mri Scanner)

Inside the pod, privacy is assured It could be a futuristic coffin for an astronaut It could be a Japanese hotel room The scanner screams like a dentist's drill, Like a banshee passing a kidney stone But yet it is warm, and soothing Like a dog-eared teddy I imagine I am staying in Tokyo I imagine I am staying in a capsule I have removed my outdoor clothes and footwear There is an etiquette to be observed ‘Are you comfortable? ' the medical aide inquires. ‘Yes thank you, ' I reply, not wishing to disappoint It would be unmannerly to fart during the scan In Japan, if you lie down immediately after eating Folk say you'll turn into a cow In the scanner I feel quite cow-like Like a beached Friesian, enjoying a summer meadow They have removed my denture, my watch, my identity But left me my Buddhist woven bracelet Blessed by a Saigon monk So I know I'll come to no harm The scanner will eject me, like a spat out pandrop Into the wheeze and grunt of the hospital's breezy entrance