The Dryer Dream

The Dryer Dream

I saw that sign

and burst out laughing

thinking of myself

spinning for glory.

Ten minutes inside

a warm metal cave

shaking like laundry

that’s given up hope.

I pictured my face

pressed to the door

eyes going wide

like a startled sock.

My belly bouncing

my hair in flight

me begging the drum

to work miracles fast.

I’d roll around

with one old bra

three socks

and a jumper from 1998.

I’d climb back out

wrinkle free

glowing like magic

and smug as can be.

Two sizes smaller

all neat again

feeling like someone

reborn in the rinse.

Though knowing my luck

the machine would jam

and I’d step out

still fluff covered.

My wrinkles louder

my clothes confused

and the socks cheering

that I didn’t shrink.

Still I’d try again

one brave spin

hoping the dryer

finally sorts me out.