But a Tool

The young attendant is but a toothbrush

Expendable, replaceable, utterly without worth.

She does not know this, just as the tool is unaware,

and stands grasping the common object.

As it rises to her lips and swirls in

ever pointless circles

so she too performs a meaningless task.

The seventh brush this year, the sixth assistant.

Dismissed and summoned by the whims of an all-powerful hand

Ground down by the mouth through physical teeth or commands of an executive

Used until deemed unfit for service

Their purpose is the same.

To perform an unsavory task, perpetually cleaning another’s mess.

Gradually reduced until the only fitting end is a final

scrub of the toilet and a toss in the can.

She puts down the worn brush and heads to an uncertain workplace,

It is almost time for a substitute